An everyday history of Upstate South Carolina from 1976 - 1980
1976
Derrick Refuses To Endorse Anyone
Third District Congressman Butler Derrick told the Picken Rotary Club last week that, "I'm not publicly endorsing any" of the Presidential aspirants. But he said, "Jimmy Carter is a substantial candidate and I like 'Mo' Udall personally." "I think Jimmy carter may at least be a vice presidential possibility," said Derrick, whose district borders on the former Georgia governor's home state.
Asked what he thought of Sen Frank Church's chances for the Presidency. Derrick said, "I hope Church stands near the bottom." Derrick warned that "We can't go beyond a point where usefulness of the CIA and you can't trun the CIA loose and tell them to do whatever they want." On detente Derrick said, "Detente is a situation where tension is being reduced between two equally strong powers, but I believe we have compromised some of our national interests."
On other issues Derrick said:
"Price control is not a possibility this year."
"A lot of people in this state favor collective barganing short of going on strike."
"Seventy-five percent of the federal budget is uncontrollable."
"I don't think there will be any broad health care legislation in the next two years, but Congress wil respond to the feeling across the nation."
"I think we will enjoy an economic recovery in 1976, but it won't be a steep climb."
"The New York City situation made a lot of people realize there is a bottom of the barrel."
"I am glad we're out of Vietnam. At least we don't have troops over there."
"It is middle America that supports the tax loopholes and those on food stamps."
"There is a general dissatisfaction with the postal service."
"We need legislation to take care of the long term natural gas needs of the people in the Piedmont area."
"Derrick Refuses to Endorse Anyone." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #37. 21 Jan 1976: Microfilm.
Citizen Band Radio Operators Agree To Help In Crime Fight
Sixty-four Pickens County citizens from all section of the county attended the second meeting of the Pickens County Crime Watch Association Sunday for the purpose of "establishing and implementing a program whereby licensed Citizen Band Radio operators in Pickens County area might assist local law enforcement agencies." Denver Owen of Easley, president of the Pickens County Crime Watch Association, said, "This assistance is to be done by observation only, acting as extra eyes and ears and reporting by appropriate means any act of crime being committed or of a suspicious nature." "We are particularly interested in felony crimes," said Sheriff David Stone, who confirmed that he was running a routine background check on all CB radio volunteers who want to serve in the program.
Operation Crime Watch, organized Dec. 12, is to be under the control of local law enforcement agencies and by the direction of the Pickens County Crime Watch executive board. Sheriff Stone said he was for the program because he believes "it will help to reduce crime." Law enforcement agencies will have the privilege to maintain or discontinue the program at their discretion or to eliminate those participants from the program they deem undesireable, Owen said. "Mechanics and procedures of the operation are to be directed and maintained by the executive board to inuse that proper operation and responsibilities are carried out." Owen said. "Crime watchers will report to several stations around the county and persons at the stations will report to the sheriff's office," Stone said.
"In no way will law enforcement agencies or Crime Watch be responsible for the actions of those people participating in this program, leaving each member to act in good faith. But we will investigate complaints against any of our members," said Owen. "Participants in this program are not law enforcement personnel and are not to act as such. No flashing lights, sirens, or other emergency indicators are permitted on participant vehicles. At no time will automobiles pursue where violation of speed law occur. No weapons, guns, or other objects are to be used or carried by persons participating in this program," said Owen. "Interference by those engaged in the program with law enforcement personnel or other proper agencies, while carrying out their duty will be subject to arrest and prosecution by the law. Also, should law enforcement personnel request assistance and assistance by[sic] refused, arrest and prosecution will be possible," said Owen.
"Any licensed Citizen Band Radio operator interested in maintaining law and order and desiring to help curb crime in the area and willing to use his radio equipment in the proper manner during reporting of incidents and abide by those rules and regulations of the program is invited to attend the Crime Watch meetings each third Sunday in each month at the Pickens Counts Law Enforcement Center meeting room at 2 p.m.," said Owen.
"Citizen Ban Radio Operators Agree To Help In Crime Fight." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #37. 21 Jan 1976: Microfilm.
Asmus Will Help Re-enact 'First Shots'
Citadel cadet Robert Bryant Asmus of Pickens has been selected to serve in the elite "Palmetto Company" which will reenact the firing on the Federal steamer, STAR OF THE WEST, Feb. 7. Only 55 cadets were selected to participate in the Bicentennial event reenacting the opening shots of the Civil War.
Citadel cadets fired those shots on the steamer, STAR OF THE WEST, from a battery of 24 pound siege guns emplaced on Morris Island. They scored three hits and drove the ship away before she could deliver her troops and supplies to besieged Ft. Sumter. The 17 shots were the first of the Civil War preceeding the firing on Fort Sumter by more than three months.
Since the firing site on Morris Island has eroded and the public could not view the spectale there, the firing will actually take place from Charleston's Brittlebank Park onthe Ashley River adjacent to The Citadel campus. The Feb. 7 date is a month off the actual 115th anniversary of the original skirmish which took place on Jan. 9, 1861. That change was effected because The Citadel Corps of Cadets was on furlough in January.
The cadets are outfitted with authentic Civil War uniforms, vintage rifles, and cannon that are authentic replicas. The weapons are operable and will be fired during the dramatic reenactment timed to a historically accurate script. The Palmetto Company has been drilling with Confederate cannon and rifles several times weekly since November. It is necessary for the unit to perfect the Manual of 1861 and learn the necessary precautions and techniques for safely firing the weapons. The ship, actually a Gray Line tour boat will be decked out as a Civil War ship, complete with a paddle wheel. The reenactment, commencing at 11 a.m., is expected to draw many spectators, some of whom will be wearing costumes of that era.
A sophomore Navy-Marine ROTC student, Cadet Asmus is majoring in biology at The Citadel. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. H.R. Asmus, 101 Garner Road, Pickens.
"Asmus Will Help Re-enact 'First Shots'." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #39. 4 Feb 1976: Microfilm.
Pickens Countians 'Accidnet Prone'
For the average Pickens County resident, what are the chances of going through an entire year withouth[sic] having an accident of some sort? Are local people more likely or less likely to be involved in a trafic accident or a home accident than those in other communities? According to the latest government statistics, concerning the entire country, local residents are more accident prone than the average. The findings are based upon data compiled by the U.S. Public Health Service, in connection with its annual vital statistics survey, and upon reports from the National Safety Council.
Covered were all accidents in which Pickens County people were involved, wherever they took place, including those that occurred while driving, while at work, in the home, or while swimming, boating or hunting. Not included, however, were local accidents affecting non-residents. Taking into account the Government's last three annual report, it appears that there had been an average of 46 fatal accidents per year in the county. Motor vehicles were responsible for 15 of them. In terms of population, the annual toll in the area was at the rate of 75 fatalities per 100,000 people during the three year period. It was somewhat higher rate than was found in most other communities in the United States, where the average was 55 per 100,000. In the South Atlantic States it was 63.
The National Safety Council's latest figures show a big drop in the overall death toll from accidents, resulting in a saving of 11,000 lives in the past year alone. Some 9,300 of them were due to a decrease in motor vehicledeaths, attributed inlarge part to the fact that people did less driving and kept their speed down. However, despite the improvement, there was still no less that 105,000 accidental deaths in the United States. And, for every person who lost his life, there were mnore than 100 other who were seriously injured.
The National Safety Council estimates the economic loss involved, counting loss of wages, medical expenses, property damage and the like at $43.3 billion. Pickens County's share of this loss, applying the average cost per accident to the local area, comes to approximately $12,006,000.
Clemson University has grown from four red brick buildings set atop a hill in northwestern South Carolina to a major center of modern higher education. It is the land-grant university of South Carolina and currently serves a body of about 11,000.
Clemson was founded in 1889, the result of a bequest to the state by Thomas G. Clemson, a tall soft-spoken engineer and agriculturalist who came to South Carolina from Pennsylvania in the 1830s. He married a daughter of statesman John C. Calhoun, who was a U.S. Senator and Vice President of the United States from 1825 to 32. "My purpose," Clemson wrote, "is to establish a college which will provide intellectual education...I do not exaggerate the importance of such an institution for developing the material resources of the state by affording its youth the advantage of scientific culture..." Clemson lobbied for his plan for several years but went to his grave without seeing it fulfilled. After his death in 1888 another man with equal foresight, Gov. Benjamin Ryan Tillman, took up his banner.
The courts tested the validity of Clemson's will, but "Pitchfork Ben" won his point. Construction began in 1890. In June 1893 Clemson Agricultural College began full-time operation with 15 faculty members and 446 students. Wright Bryan, 1926 alumnus and editor of the Clevland Plain Dealer, said in a 1956 commencement address, "Clemson has changed. Had it not, it would no longer exist." The truth in his words is demonstrated by the many changes at Clemson through the years. Clemson in the beginning was an all-male military institution with degrees conferred only in engineering and agriculture. The all-military status was dropped in 1955, with the retention of ROTC. Women were allowed to enroll, but only as day students becuase no dormitory facilities were available. The first women graduated in 1957. In 1963 the first women's dorms became available. Today women make up about 35 percent of the student body. The peaceful and dignified way in which the instituion handled racial integration in 1963 served as a model for other colleges and brought praise from around the country.
Clemson's physical apperance has undergone remarkable changes too. The campus is dotted with some very old buildings and many very new. The long heritage of the institution is embodied in stately structures like Tillman Hall (1893), Godfrey Hall (1808), Harding Hall (1890), and Holtzendorff YMCA (1915). The Calhoun Mansion with its tall columns and wooded grounds is a strong link to the history of the nation.
The main campus today consists of some 600 acres and represents over $87 million in academic buildings, housing, service facilities and equipment. Beyond the main campus, 21,000 acres of farm and forestry research lands stretch into Oconee, Pickens and Anderson Counties. Throughout the state 6,800 acres are devoted to Agricultureal Experiment Station research and 4-H activites. A central feature of recent campus development is the Robert C. Cooper Library, completed in 1966. This impressive structure houses over half a million volumes and is the permanent home of papers and souvenirs of Edgar A. Brown, James F. Byrnes, John C. Calhoun and other South Carolina Statesmen.
Other facilities completed in the past decade include three high-rise dormitories, a modern health care clinic, an east campus dining hall, an arts and sciences classroom building, a high-rise office building and the multi-purpose Littlejohn Coliseum. Others just completed or under construction include Buildings for the College of Nursing, agricultural administration, College of Forest and Recreation Resources, biological sciences and the Edgar A. Brown Student Union.
According to the 1975 report by the National Education Association, South Carolina ranks first int eh nation in percentage of increase in enrollment at institution of higher education. However, growth in numbers is not as impressive as growth in quality at Clemson. Steadily for the past 20 years, the university's incoming freshman class has come from high school students with higher class standings. Last year, 58 percent of the freshman class graduated in the top 20 percent of their high school.
"Clemson To Serve 11,000 Students." Pickens Sentinel: vol 106 #8. 20 June 1976: Microfilm.
1977
Easley Mother Sentenced In Son's Beating Death
An Easley woman was sentenced to life in prison at about 8:10 p.m. Tuesday after a Pickens County jury found her guilty of murder in the death of her 13 year old son. Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor Billy Wilkins argued That Mrs. Bessie Mae Blassingame, 32, hit and killed her son with a whiskey bottle while he was in bed at home. Judge John Gentry announced the sentence.
"Mrs. Blassingame's son, David, died about 3:45 a.m. Feb. 19 in Easley Baptist Hospital after being admitted about midnight," Dr. J.R. Mahanes, attending surgeon, said. Another physician, Dr. James Pruitt, a pathologist at Oconee Memorial Hospital testified death was caused by a blow on the boy's head by a blunt object. A gallon whiskey bottle was placed in evidence as the murder instrument by the prosecution.
"A blood test conducted on the defendant the night of the incident indicated a blood alcohol content of .268 percent:, a lab technician from Greenville General Hospital testified. Wilkins said the law presumes intoxication after the blood alcohol content of a person's body passed .10 percent.
The woman's husband, Frank Blassingame, was not at the home when the incident occurred. He has been arrested by Easley police earlier in the evening and charged with a traffic violation, testimony indicated.
The defense did not present any witnesses, but argued the prosecution had failed to prove Mrs. Blassingame did it. The defendant held that she was innocent after the jury reported.
"Easley Mother Sentenced In Son's Beating Death." Pickens Sentinel, vol 106 #47. 30 Mar 1977: Microfilm.
Singer Announces $8.8 Million Expansion
An $8.8 million expansion program for The Singer Company's Power Tool Division was announced Wednesday by Eugene L. Holland, Division President. The expansion will add 120,000 square feet of manufacturing floor space to the Clarksville, Arkansas plant. An additional 40,000 square feet will be added to the Pickens plant, which includes die casting and power tool facilities. Construction will begin in the immediate future and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Singer's Power Tool Division, headquartered in Pickens’s, includes a manufacturing plant and die casting facility at Pickens and a satellite manufacturing plant at Clarksville. The division manufactures Craftsman portable electric tools for Sears, Roebuck and Co. "This is the second expansion by the Power Tool Division in the last two years," Mr. Holland said, "and will provide for the immediate capacity needs of the division. "In addition, employment at the Clarksville facility is expected to increase approximately 50 percent in the next 12 months," Holland added.
According to Holland, the employment at the Clarksville plant has increased more than 400 percent since it opened in April 1972. Built by Singer in 1972, the Clarksville plant, located on a 66 acre tract, includes 120,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space designed for easy expansion. The Pickens plant expansion will be primarily allotted to warehouse space and additional key manufacturing equipment. Employment is expected to remain at its present level.
Holland stated that this expansion and the continued success of Singer's Power Tool Division is a "direct result of the dedication to excellence of the Clarksville and Pickens work force in producing portable electric tools for Sears."
Singer is a worldwide manufacturer and marketer in three major business areas: Sewing Products, Products Manufactured for the Consumer, and Products and Services for Government.
"Singer Announces $8.8 Million Expansion." Pickens Sentinel, vol 106 #49. 13 April 1977: Microfilm.
Computerized Phone Service Begins in Pickens On June 25
Southern Bell telephone customers in Pickens will benefit from the technology of computerized telephone service beginning June 25. On the date the new Electronic Switching System (ESS) office on Cedar Rock Street in Pickens will begin handling the switching of telephone calls of customers served by Southern Bell's 878 exchange.
The new facility, similar to the ESS office on the Abbeville Highway, which serves Southern Anderson, has the capacity to handle 6,100 phone lines. There are now about 4,000 lines in the 878 area. This new office will make it possible for the company to offer some new calling features designed to make telephone service more convenient and useful. Touch-Tone (pushbutton) service and Custom Calling features will be available for a small additional monthly amount.
All coin telephones in the area will have "dial tone first." Coin telephone users will get the dial tone without depositing a coin. This service is helpful in placing long distance calls and in reaching an operator in case of an emergency. Automatic Number Identification (ANI) service will also be effective on June 25. ANI provides automatic identification of customers' telephone call when this new telephone facility goes into service.
It will be necessary to dial all seven digits of the telephone number to complete a telephone call when this new telephone facility goes in.
Large gold and blue cares placed on homes in area that do not have specific street number addresses are helping Southern Bell give new telephone customers faster installation service. The five by 10 inch cards are being placed near front and rear entrances of homes without specific street addresses that have been vacated by Southern Bell customers. The stickers have the telephone number of the former occupant. When new occupants move into the house and request telephone service, they tell the phone company service representative the phone number on the card. This makes it faster for the telephone company to locate the records which give information needed for installing a new phone. And this, in turn, speeds up the telephone installation process for the new occupant.
According to J.K. Swygert, Southern Bell Anderson District Plant Manager, using the cards for homes with indefinite street address "speeds up the installation process so that we can get telephone service for the new resident within our normal two-day appointment time. Without this information the process could be delayed several days."
"Computerized Phone Service Begins in Pickens On June 25." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #6. 15 June 1977: Microfilm.
Pickens Called Disaster Area
Vern F. Amick, district director of the Small Business Administration in Columbia, Aug. 11 announced that A. Vernon Weaver, has declared 42 S.C. counties including Pickens, as disaster areas. This declaration is a direct result of the severe crop losses during the drought of the 1977 crop year.
Farmers sustaining a loss due to this drought will be eligible for long-term financing from SBA to cover the cost of planting during the new crop year. Applications for Farm Physical Disaster Loans may be filled directly with SBA from now through Oct. 11, 1977. The interest rate on this type loan in 3 per cent up to $250,000 and 6 5/8 percent for loans exceeding this amount. Also, Economic Disaster Injury Loans (EDIL) are available to both agricultural and non-agricultural businesses sustaining verified substantial economic injury as a direct result of the drought. Application for EDI loans may be filed until May 10, 1978. The interest rate on the EDI loans is three percent on amounts up to $25,000 and six and five eights percent on loan amounts exceeding this up to a maximum of $500,000 per loan.
Amick stated that providing physical disaster loans to farmers is a first for SBA and that this district office will respond to this disaster in the most efficient and effective manner possible to aid the farmers and businesses adversely affected by recent drought conditions.
On Wednesday, Aug. 17, four temporary disaster field offices will be opened at strategic locations throughout the state. Hours of operation of each office will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. through 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The area disaster office is Spartanburg Federal Building, 201 Magnolia Street, 2nd Floor, Rooms 204 and 206. Telephone numbers will be available by calling information in each of the cities.
Amick has asked the affected farmers and businesses to keep abreast with the local media since additional information and changes that occur will be publicized.
"Pickens Called Disaster Area." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #15. 17 Aug 1977: Microfilm.
1978
Probe Planned of Easley Police 'Brutality'
Easley Mayor Charles Ellenburg said late Tuesday afternoon he has been with Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor Billy Wilkins to discuss the matter of a thorough investigation into the city's police department. Mayor Ellenburg said Monday afternoon he plans to seek an investigation into allegations of police brutality and false arrest against the Easley Police Department.
Ellenburg's announcement followed Easley Police Chief Kenneth Holcombe's statement earlier Monday that he wanted an investigation of Ellenburg's recent accusation that Easley police officers had been involved in alleged beating of suspects last summer. The chief said he has already made the request to the city council. "Permission for the investigation will be given if council deems necessary to clear the department." Holcombe said. The chief said he does not know what agency will conduct the investigation but said it could be the FBI of State Law Enforcement Division.
Several members of the Easley Police Department also agreed this weekend to send city council a letter requesting an investigation and asking that Ellenburg make a public apology for allegations of police brutality. Ellenburg made the accusations at a Jan. 9 city council meeting after Councilman Frank Waldrop asked for a change in the city's form of government. Waldrop said Ellenburg has been "on the back of Chief Holcombe and the police department" since the mayor took office last spring.
At that meeting, Ellenburg raised the allegation that a handcuffed suspect was struck by a police officer July 24 after a chase and collision of a private car and police vehicle. That suspect later signed a document releasing the police department and the officer involved from any liability in exchange for not pressing charges against him in connection with the chase incident, police records show.
Asked whether Ellenburg's allegations had caused problems within the department Holcombe said, "yes, it has." "There has been no charge of police brutality against the Easley Police Department," Holcombe said. "There have been no beatings," he said.
On Monday, Buford Julian York, 19, of 1 Jackson St., Liberty, driver of the private car in that chase, told Ellenburg and reporters that on July 24 he and his brother-in-law, Wendell Taylor were chased down South Fifth Street, up Pendleton Street, and to the entrance ramp of U.S. Highway 123 Bypass by, then Captain of Detectives Larry Thomas. York said Thomas' unmarked car did not have a blue light or siren. He said he entered the ramp, then saw two police patrol cars coming toward him. He said he made a sharp U-turn, headed back down the ramp, and struck Thomas' car.
Thomas, however, said he called for assistance while following York and that police in a marked patrol car, with siren and blue light, pursued the suspect. York said he and his brother-in-law were handcuffed and were struck by officers. Police, however, have denied that York was struck. Police Chief Holcombe, however, has confirmed that York's brother-in-law was struck by an officer, who he said was later reprimanded. York said although he was suffering from severe neck pains when taken to police headquarters, police refused to take him to the hospital. Officer Jan Kelly, who administered a breathalyzer test to York, said he asked the suspect whether he wanted to go to the hospital for a blood test and that York refused. "York told me he didn't want to go to the hospital, he just wanted to be locked up," Kelly said.
York later pleaded guilty to failing to stop for a blue light, driving under the influence (first offense) and no driver's license, police records show. York also alleged that officer Kelley, who gave him the breathalyzer test must be administered by an officer not at the scene of the arrest. Kelly, however, said he was at home in bed when the incident occurred about 10 p.m. July 24. He said he was called to the department to give the test.
York's statements were made in Ellenburg's office after he had requested an appointment with the mayor. He agreed to talk in front of reporters. Ellenburg said he had never met York before. "I know nothing about the young man and his testimony except for what I heard this afternoon," he said.
Police records show that Wendell Taylor, York's brother-in-law, signed a document after the incident, releasing the police department and Mike Crawford, the officer who allegedly struck him, from any liability after they promised no charges would be brought against him in connection with the incident.
The false-arrest allegation stems from a disagreement between Ellenburg and police officers concerning the legality of several arrests, some of which were for minor incidents. But in at least one, in which Ellenburg contends officers falsely accused an Easley resident of having an open beer in his possession while the man was cleaning a local night spot early Sunday morning. The man contended the beer was in a cooler, but police said it was open. Ellenburg said after the solicitor's opinion was obtained, the man's bond money was refused.
Both Ellenburg and Holcombe said Monday they wanted to "get to the bottom of this thing" as soon as possible. Ellenburg told council last Monday that Easley police had been involved in an incident last summer in which a suspect arrested for reckless driving was allegedly beaten by an officer. "Some people were stopped driving a car that had been in an accident. They were handcuffed and beaten up by the police department, " Ellenburg said at the council meeting.
"Probe Planned of Easley Police 'Brutality'." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #37. 18 Jan 1978: Microfilm.
U.S. Is Getting Far Behind Reds, Clemson ROTC Instructor Warns
"The U.S. is getting so far behind the Soviet Union it is absolutely frightening," says major John Griffin. Griffin, who currently teaches military science to some of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps' 130 Clemson University cadets says, "The Soviets could become so strong conventionally that they would move swiftly across Europe." "I don't think people in this country recognize the threat of the Communists. They are expanding all over the world," says Griffin, who lives at Six Mile. "We can have the best people, but we need the best equipment and materials. If the Soviets feel they can take great risks, I think they will take them," says Griffin, "Detente is fine with strength, but the aggressor only understands raw power."
Says Griffin, who has served in the U.S. Air Force for 13 years, "If the enemy perceives a lack of resolve they may underestimate us and try something. They have a tremendous civil defense program in Russia and they have their evacuation programs. Also there isn't as much emphasis on human life in their country. And what civil defense plans do we have in this country?" Griffin warns that the Soviets are developing an anti-missile system which can stop anything the U.S. has other than something like the Cruise missile which travels at a level below where most anti-missile systems would pick it up.
Quoting from "The Commanders Digest" Griffin says, "Soviet tank inventories exceed ours by nearly four to one. They have built a modern, capable, tactical aircraft force which now exceeds ours numerically. Only in helicopters do we maintain clear superiority." "The Soviets have come from about 225 intercontinental ballistic missiles to some 1,000, having overtaken the U.S. in the late 1960's. The Soviet submarine launched ballistic missile system has grown from 29 to more than 700. The Soviets have a 2.5 to one advantage in attack submarines. They have 20 percent greater numbers of cruisers, destroyers and frigates. The U.S. does have an advantage in aircraft carriers," says Griffin. "The active fleet of U.S. Navy ships has dropped from 947 to fewer than 480 over the past ten years," says Griffin, "Defense spending's share of the federal budget is the lowest since shortly before Pearl Harbor."
Griffin says the U.S. needs money spent for research and development. "We all benefit from this. American computers can be traced to military research and development. But when we get these computers we should not sell them to the Soviets. We spent a lot to develop these computers," says Griffin, a graduate of Pickens High School. Griffin, who has travelled to 34 countries through military service says, "The military is an honorable profession. There is an awful lot of integrity in the Armed Forces...people who tell it like it is. Todays[sic] military is also quite technical. We need bright people."
Through his teaching at Clemson University Griffin has become acquainted with survey information which tells the attitudes of young people entering ROTC in recent years. "They have a love of country and they believe in patriotism. They want to help their country. Young people are beginning to know this is the greatest country," says Griffin, "I hope we will return to the resolve we had as a country during the Berlin Airlift when we refused to let the people of West Berlin be starved out by the Communists."
"Pickens County is a great place to live and we have great people. Bright young people from the county may want to consider the Air Force. They can go off for a number of years and then return to Pickens," says Griffin, "We are looking for quality people with technical skills in today's Air Force." While Griffin is concerned about the fact the U.S. is no longer manufacturing the B-52 bomber or any other suitable replacement to the B-52, he still believes in the kind of people found across America who have faith in God and faith in their country. He tells of many who stood the overwhelming test of torture at the hands of the Vietnamese Communists. "Faith pulled some of them through," says Griffin.
"U.S. IS Getting Far Behind Reds, Clemson ROTC Instructor Warns." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #40. 08 Feb 1978: Microfilm.
Bob Nash Wins Council Seat
Bob Nash of Central became the first Republican in modern history to win a contested county government election Tuesday, defeating Donald Allsep of Six Mile for county seat two, 362 to 246. Nash carried Central, Clemson, and Mountain View precincts and ran stronger than expected in the Six Mile and Praters precincts. Allsep had 26 absentee votes to none for Nash and Allsep carried Norris 13 to three.
Nash, a former Pickens County Republican chairman, carried his home precinct at Central 235 to 13. He is a professor at Central Wesleyan College. Nash also carried the portion of the Clemson precinct which is in county council district two 50 to five and lost at Mountain View six to nine.
Allsep, a Six Mile businessman, won his home precinct 141 to 45 and edged Nash at Praters 39 to 27. Allsep has already filed in the June Democratic primary for the same council set as Nash in the Republican primary. Neither has opposition, meaning they will face each other again in the November general election.
Tuesday's election was to fill the unexpired term on council of Roy Collins, who resigned to accept appointment as county supervisor. Collins, who was also a Republican when elected, was not contested by the Democrats when he ran two years ago. The only other persons elected on the Republican ticket in Pickens County were Rep. Ed Simpson of Clemson for the State House of Representatives and Solicitor Billy Wilkins, who was running in a two county district.
Pickens County Republican Chairman Frank Kolb said, "This is really a victory for Bob Nash, but it shows the voters of Pickens County are independent and will vote for the man rather than the party."
"Bob Nash Wins Council Seat." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #48. 05 April 1978: Microfilm.
Instant Driver's License In Use
You might never again have to drive around with a paper receipt in your pocket while you wait for your renewed driver's license to arrive in the mail. Beginning next week, the South Carolina Department of Highways and Public Transportation will issue across the counter, instant driver's licenses in 25 Motor Vehicle Division license offices across the state. These offices are in Aiken, Anderson, Beaufort, Charleston (two locations), Chester, Chesterfield, Columbia, Conway, Florence, Gaffney, Georgetown, Greenville (two locations), Greenwood, Greer, Lancaster, Laurens, Moncks Corner, Orangeburg, Pickens, Rock Hill, Seneca, Spartanburg, and Sumter.
By the end of April, the Department expects that the new instant licenses will be issued in all 56 of its field license offices. The new licenses will be printed on two-mil polyester laminated material which can't be torn and which is available only for government use. It will feature a larger color photograph than the previous licenses had, and it will be thinner. License restriction codes and explanations will be attached to the back of the license. The new licenses will be made possible through the use of new cameras and processing equipment purchased by the Department with federal grant money.
Here's how the new procedure will work. When a person's license is due for renewal, he will receive a renewal card in the mail approximately 30 days prior to his renewal date. If he takes this form to the driver's license office and presents it as evidence of his authority to renew, his license can be prepared and he can be on his way in a matter of about ten minutes. If he does not have his renewal card with him, the process will take a little longer while Department personnel determine if he is eligible for a license. A.W. Utsey, assistant director of the Motor Vehicle Division says, "We're hoping that at least 50 percent of the people will come in with that renewal card. If we have 50 percent we think we'll be doing good."
The department is also installing a new system of computer and video terminals and printers in these same offices. This new communications network, which will be completed by the end of the summer, "opens up a whole new area of communications as far as our field offices are concerned, " says Mr. Utsey. They system will give personnel in the local offices instantaneous access to computer files stored in Motor Vehicle Division offices in Columbia, and will enable them to make immediate decisions on such things as whether a person is entitled to a driver's license, vehicle registration and tags. The first computer terminals have already been installed in the busiest MVD centers around the state, and printers will be installed in the same offices by the end of April. The other offices will get printers and terminals, possibly in June.
The Department has conducted seminars in Greenville, Charleston and Columbia to train about 350 employees in the use of the new photographic equipment.
"Instant Driver's License In Use." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #48. 05 April 1978: Microfilm.
Live Shell Is Found At County Museum
An artillery shell of World War I vintage was discovered to be live at the Pickens County Historical Museum Friday. Contacted by a museum employe[sic], the Pickens County Sheriff's Department immediately called Fort Jackson's demolition specialists who were dispatched to Pickens. Lt. Buddy Duncan and Detective Jerry Duncan carried the shell, which had been recently donated to the museum from the museum to the Pickens County Law Enforcement Center. Within two and a half hours two specialists had arrived in Pickens from Fort Jackson and by 9 p.m., Friday the shell was detonated in a lot adjoining the law enforcement center. The soldiers used plastic explosives with a timer to ignite the 60-year-old artillery shell.
Detective Duncan said he had no training in handling live explosives, so he buried the shell in some soft dirt next to the law enforcement center, ending the arrival of the team from Fort Jackson. Chief Deputy Randall Stewart said, "We are very fortunate no one was hurt. I'm glad we got our hands on it before it fell to the floor or some child played with it." Stewart descried the explosive as a flip, flop type mortar shell containing black powder. It had a shotgun primer that set off on impact, said Stewart.
Detective Duncan learned that the shell was brought Wednesday to the museum and was there two days before being reported. It came from an old ammo tunnel at the corner of Wade Hampton and Artillery Rd. in the Taylors section of Greenville County. It was believed to have come from the old Camp Sevier. Chief Stewart said, "People, if you find one of these old shells please contact your local law enforcement people."
Chief Stewart said there will be no charges made against anyone in the incident, since no one was hurt and no harm had been intended by anyone.
"Live Shell Is Found At County Museum." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #50. 19 April 1978: Microfilm.
1979
Color Photographs Won’t Be Accepted
The policy of The Sentinel is that black and white photographs are required for printing purposes. Color photographs will not be accepted. Persons planning to have engagement, wedding or anniversary photographs printed in the newspaper should make prior arrangements so that someone takes black and white photographs.
The Sentinel policy is designed to do justice to the event with a suitable photograph. Color photography is not suitable for The Sentinel’s offset printing production. The Sentinel’s photography policy also requires that black and white photographs be up to minimum printing standards. It is important for printing purposes that the photographs submitted to The Sentinel have contrast. Photographs which lack definition and in which head of the subject blends with the background are not suitable for publication.
Photographs will only be printed in The Sentinel after being formally accepted by the editor or other person with responsibility in the area of the graphic arts. “Color Photographs Won’t Be Accepted.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 108 #35. 03 Jan 1979: Microfilm.
Liberty Police Captain Is A Pretty Lady
She’s 21, single, attractive and a police captain. No, it’s not the pilot for a TV “midseason replacement series.” It is the profile of Captain Vickie Vaughn, Operations Officer for the Liberty Police Department. Although petite and soft-spoken, the brunette has a no-nonsense demeanor as she talks matter-of-factly about her job as a “beat officer” and supervisor over men in a realm that is traditionally theirs. But the “lady cop” received the stamp of approval from her male counterparts when they voter her the 1977 LPD “Officer of the Year”, and after she had been on the job less than two years.
Captain Vaughn showed her interest in police work from the start. After graduating from Pickens High School in 1975, she went to work as a records clerk for the Greenville Police Services Bureau. A year later, she signed on as an auxiliary officer for the Liberty Police Department. Then, six months later, in January, 1977, this daughter of Mrs. Margaret Vaughn of Pickens, was sworn in as the first regular female police officer in Liberty’s history. Saying she didn’t look upon the acquisition of her new job as a victory for women’s lib as such, Ms. Vaughn simply explains that she wanted a job with variety.
Chief Gregg Masceri, while voicing generous adulation now for her competence and abilities, concedes he was skeptical at first: “I had several applicants for the one opening we had, but she was the most qualified, and I was reluctant not to hire her because she was a woman. Still, I felt she would quit when she saw what really was involved in the job.” Laughing as he reflects have upon his thinking two years ago, Masceri adds, “Then she proved she could do the job.”
Vicki Vaughn came up through the ranks, and she did it rapidly. “Because,” affirms Masceri, “she can make decisions quickly on the field; she’s a very capable, qualified officer.” How can a woman patrol officer function on the field when she’s limited in the traditional use of brute force in law enforcement are over. It doesn’t take manpower or physical power to do the work anymore.” He says his female captain is effective, because men, even those who are intoxicated, “respect women officers, resulting in their having an easier time with men than with women.” Masceri says a man simply has an instinct to respect women no matter how drunk he is or who he is. Captain Vaughn echoes this thinking, nothing “I’d much rather arrest a drunk man than a woman who is intoxicated.
Vaughn is now second-in-command in the Liberty department, because the assistant police chief’s slot is vacant. But she says this poses no problems for her, “I don’t think the men look upon me as a woman, they know I’m a supervisor, and I hope I’ve got their respect in being a supervisor. I think I have.” She affirms, “I feel I have the same job to do as a man would as a police officer; it’s no different to me, really.” She says she spends more time behind the desk than do her male subordinates. Making out the officers work schedules, being in charge of the second shift, and working as Masceri’s assistant in administration keeps Captain Vaughn bust forty hours a week (and then some). And she calmly declares that the decision-making role required in her job is simply a matter of deciding to do something and then doing it. “You can’t sit there fifteen minutes when there’s a decision to be made; you’ve just got to make the decision.”
A concern that merchants and citizens alike work more closely with law enforcement in interwoven throughout Captain Vaughn’s conversation. “Citizens could help us by making their homes more secure, and merchants by making sure all their entrances are secure. Also merchants can help by having an adequate alarm system to notify us of any problem on those occasions when we get tied up.” The lady officer then adds, “I’d like to see parents teach their children more respect for police officers, but I think a lot of times their parents influence them in the wrong way, by saying things like, ‘if you’re bad, I’m going to get a police officer to come lock you up.’ This makes children scared of police officers.”
Captain Vaughn said she finds answering domestic calls “very unpleasant.” “We get called out and find ourselves in the middle, between the husband and the wife. They want us to work a miracle, but it doesn’t happen that way,” she declares. The slightly built officer says she doesn’t carry a nightstick or slapstick when on patrol, “I just carry my service revolver, but I’ve never had to draw it.” She says whenever there’s any trouble, like a fight at a local tavern, the male officers are usually there to back her up. Sometimes, however, Vaughn says she’s in the think of it alone, “I just try to keep my wits about me and stay calm” she adds.
A graduate of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, she says trainees are taught basic judo tactics to help them in tight spots, but she emphasizes that keeping a cool head and maintaining a sense of control over any dilemma is still crucial. But what’s it like when she stops a man for speeding? “Sometimes he’ll just sit there and stare at me while I’m writing his ticket.” “Liberty Police Captain Is A Pretty Lady.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 108 #39. 31 Jan 1979: Microfilm.
‘Freedom For Hostages First Priority,’ Butler Derrick Says
Congressman Butler Derrick told The Sentinel Tuesday that “the first priority in this situation must be to get the American hostages out of there” (the embassy in Tehran). “We are being black-mailed and mis-used in Iran,” said Derrick, “I believe the people in my district are tired of being trampled on, but they don’t want war.” “I don’t want to see us get into another Vietnam,” said Derrick, “If we have way, let’s declare it a war and handle it like a war.”
Saying he was trying to remain quiet on the Iran crisis, Derrick told The Sentinel, “I’m trying to be responsible. I don’t want to grandstand politically because of the seriousness of the situation.” Derrick says he feels he is being kept properly informed by the State Department. “Congress can get any information we want over there in the Middle East. The State Department is keeping Congress informed concerning the situation in the Middle East,” said Derrick. Asked about Washington Post reports that the Pakistani Army had not responded to the attack on the American Embassy for five hours, Derrick said he didn’t get his information from the Washington Post, but from the State Department.
Derrick said he has been involved in top secret briefings on the situation in Pakistan and that he was satisfied the Pakistani government had responded quickly and adequately to the embassy attack. Two Americans were killed in the Pakistani riots against America last week. Derrick said he did not think these killings were enough to go to war over. “Accidents happen even in this country,” he said. Asked how many Americans had to be killed to bring the American government into a war, Derrick said he could not give any certain number or tell how the government into a war, Derrick said he could not give any certain number or tell how the government should act “in a hypothetical case.” While Derrick is not making speaking engagements on the crisis in Iran, he is responding to questions from constituents concerned about the situation. His office phone is 1-202-225-5301. “Freedom For Hostages First Priority,’ Butler Derrick Says.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 # 30. 28 Nov 1979: Microfilm.
Black Disco Stirs Easley
An irate group of Easley residents, appearing before their city council Monday night to seek relief from a newly-opened disco lounge, agreed to work for a “meeting of the minds” with the disco owners. Otherwise, city attorney John Gentry pointedly advised, court action might be their only alternative. Residents of streets adjacent to the Discotheque Lounge, located at 302 Washington Avenue Extension, just south of the 123 bypass, told council members they were “Appealing for relief from what the nuisance” created by patrons of the night spot.
Chief spokesman for the group, Leonard Looper, contended the lounge is creating a disturbance into the early morning hours. He said the loud music and talking, combined with cars both parking along the streets and speeding down those streets, while using resident’s driveways for turning around, has created a very unpleasant situation. Further, Looper said, the patrons are using yards and driveways “for a bathroom,” and are littering the area with beer cans and other debris. He charged the city with having allowed the problem to develop, contending Easley officials had issued the license without first checking to see if the disco would be up to building code standards for the maximum number of people the building would hold and the number of cars which could be gotten into the parking lot.
Looper then presented city officials with photo copies of new book pages defining “nuisance,” and he presented a petition signed by neighborhood residents, asking council to revoke the lounge’s license, issued on Oct. 22. Next, Joe Garrett, another neighborhood resident, told council he lives only about 88 feet from the building, and “I need some sleep,” said Garrett. He told council members beer cans and other litter thrown on his property was concrete evidence of his complaint. “If you want to see it, it’s down there; I’m not picking it up anymore,” Garrett flatly stated. After telling council members, “you’re invited down for coffee and cake at two or three o’clock in the morning, because I’ll be up anyway,” Garrett joined with Looper in telling city fathers “we rest our cases.”
City attorney and former county judge John Gentry, however, advise that if the license was revoked, the owners of the disco lounge could take the city to court, demanding that Easley officials “show cause” for revoking the business license. The attorney further told the unhappy residents they could seek a court injunction against the operation of the night spot, but Gentry said those were the only choices. Responding to Looper’s statement that he “rested his case” with council, Gentry affirmed: “This is a city council and not a court of law; the court of common pleas is a place where it should be rested.” He said if the matter wound up in court, sworn testimony would be taken from both sides so the court could determine whether the lounge’s operation did constitute a legal nuisance.
Mayor Charles Ellenburg told the petitioning residents the state Alcoholic Beverage Commission had the lounge’s application for a beer and wine license “on hold” because of the complaints, and said the mayor: “I have repeatedly said, somebody will have to sign a warrant.” Looper and his neighbors, however, contended they didn’t want to sign warrants, adding they weren’t against the disco, but simply wanted the noise, littering and inappropriate activities stopped. At one point, when Looper and Gentry clashed over the city’s inability to resolve the matter, well-known local businessman Marvin Garrett, sitting in the back of the crowded council chambers, calmly urged: “I think we’d better listen to Brother John (Gentry).”
The mayor and council then agreed they would meet Thursday afternoon at 4:30 city hall with a group of the discontented residents, with Jack Breazeale, a respected leader in the city’s black community and with the three owners of the disco lounge. City officials later said they felt confident a “meeting of minds” could be reached shortly in the controversy. City fathers Monday night also gave first reading approval to the budget for 1980. Second and final approval must be given $1,613,612 budget before January first. “Black Disco Stirs Easley.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109, #32. 12 Dec 1979: Microfilm.
1980
Table Rock Mountain Mystery Still Unsolved
The most extensive search ever conducted at Table Rock has failed to produce a single substantial clue as to the whereabouts of a young Berea man, presumed missing on the mountain since four days before Christmas. That was the assessment given Wednesday by Pickens County Civil Defense Director Don Evett after over 2,000 man-hours of searching for Steve Smith, 23, a student at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida. Because the search has produced no clues, Evett said the efforts were being cut back.
Smith, a second year student at the Assembly of God College near Tampa, flew home from school on Dec. 7, to spend the holidays with his family. As Eagle Scout and experienced outdoorsman, Smith reportedly went hiking at Table Rock on Thursday, Dec. 30 after also reportedly having hiked on the mountain about three years ago. The following day, the ministerial student had lunch with his father, telling the elder Smith he wanted to get a haircut. His father told authorities he gave his son ten dollars before leaving him at 12:15 that mid-day.
Smith was driving his brother’s blue Volkswagen, and the car was first spotted in the parking lot at Table Rock around 5 p.m., Friday by park rangers. Because of visitors to the park, the rangers didn’t become concerned until the car remained in the parking lot overnight. On Saturday, Assistant Park Superintendant Robert Sullivan requested the sheriff’s department to run the license tag through the state department of motor vehicles, but the computer in Columbia threw the card back out, indicating that the tag number wasn’t on file.
Sullivan wasn’t too concerned at first, because according to park superintendant Mike Hendrix, college students frequently come into the park to camp out during vacation periods. When the VW was not moved by the first of the week, however, Sullivan again had the tag run through, and this time the DMV came up with the identity of the owner. The car was then connected with the missing person’s bulletin which Smith’s parents had filed on Saturday with Greenville authorities when their son failed to return home.
Hendrix had been on vacation in the lowcountry, but he cut short his holiday and returned to Table Rock when Sullivan advised him of the missing person bulletin out for the presumed driver of the car. Civil defense director Evett was advised of the situation around 7:30 Christmas night, and within a short time, had a team of rescue squad personnel searching the hiking tail at the state park. On Wednesday, a massive ground and air search was organized, covering some 24,000 acres of Table Rock and Pinnacle Mountains, as well as the Greenville watershed (reservoir). Evett said there were an average of 65 men per day involved in the search during the latter part of Christmas week and over 100 men involved during the weekend.
He estimated that in excess of 2,000 man-hours had been spent searching the mountain, in addition to the time, money and effort given by the wives of rescue squad personnel and Boy Scout leaders in preparing hot meals for the searchers at the scene. Further, Evett said a state wildlife department helicopter spent five hours combing the rugged terrain from the air, in addition to three hours logged by private plane last week and this in the search. Evett commented all those involved in the search efforts, including rescue squad volunteers from the Easley, Liberty, Pickens, and Central unit, county sheriff’s deputies and state wildlife officers, personnel from the Greenville Watershed, about 20 of Smith’s fellow Eagle Scouts from Greenville and “other volunteers.”
“All these people performed about and beyond the call of duty, and we’re deeply grateful for their work,” affirmed Evett. He said late Wednesday that unless some substantial clue was found as to Smith’s presence of the mountain, search efforts, which were cut back Tuesday, would continue on a “low scale.” The civil defense director, (who, incidentally began work as full-time director only Tuesday) Wednesday gave this overall assessment of the situation: “We have reason to believe that Steve went hiking at Table Rock on Friday, Dec. 21. Since his car was in the parking lot, we have operated under the assumption that he possibly could still be in the mountain area.”
Evett also reflected upon the young man’s being an Eagle Scout, “his father, Gene Smith, told us, ‘Steve, was out-of-doors and should know what to do in the even something happened to him.’” While not ruling out the possibility that Smith could have injured himself on the mountain, Evett pointed out that searchers had combed the mountain extensively. He said had the hiker attempted to start a fire, it would have been spotted. He added that the helicopter crew had operated under conditions of excellent visibility and would have been able to pick out red boundary markers on the trees on the mountainside.
Officials evaluated the significance of one report that a young man resembling Smith had been seen logging in the park on his disappearance. Further, searchers found the letters S-M-I-T scratched in the dirt at a fork on Table Rock trail. An arrow had also been drawn pointing in the direction of Table Rock. While not discounting the possible significance of these two reports, Evett said, “We’ve checked these things out and have drawn a total blank.”
The Sentinel Wednesday talked by phone with Jamie Gaulden, assistant dean of men at Smith’s Southeastern Bible College, and was told he “was a good student and worked at a church in Tampa.” Gaulden further said everyone at the school was concerned over Smith’s safety and earnestly hoped and prayed he would be found alive and well. “Table Rock Mountain Mystery Still Unsolved.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 #35. 02 Jan 1980: Microfilm. I want to add that this was the first paper of the new decade. The other articles on the front page contained one or two more murders, two larceny articles, and a fatal fire. Great way to start the decade with a bang!
$300,000 Disaster Warning System
New regulations recently handed down by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, in the wake of the Three Mile Island, are going to mean that either Duke Power Co. or the Pickens and Oconee Civil Defense offices will have to be responsible for providing an emergency warning system to all residences within ten miles of the Oconee Nuclear Station. The system must be capable of providing a warning within 15 minutes of a nuclear mishap, to notify the public of the need to evacuate.
Although several options are available for providing the system, it must be in place by January of next year, or Duke could have its license for operating the nuclear plant revoked. And providing the warning system may well cost in excess of $300,000 for Pickens County alone, in addition to the cost incurred by Oconee County. Pickens County Civil Defense Director Don Evett said the county may be able to obtain a federal grant for at least part of the system’s cost, but if Duke installs the new warning system, utility officials say the cost would have to be passed along to customers.
Options being considered include a siren system, a special telephone company ringing system or individual weather service radios, which would be activated by a tone from the weather bureau in Greer. Evett said the siren system is almost out of the question because one of the multi-tone sirens, each of which have its own tower and emergency generator, would have to be placed within each square mile of that ten mile radius of the nuclear plant. He said that could mean over 300 siren towers.
Immediate figures weren’t available on the emergency telephone circuits, but Evett said the weather radios would cost $50 each. In addition to requiring the nuclear warning system, the new NRC regulations also mandate that the county maintain a permanent emergency operations center, “capable of providing for 24-hour per day emergency response, including 24-hour manning of communications links.” Evett’s current procedure is to set up an EOC in the courthouse basement for nuclear drills, and he told The Sentinel, “We’ll try to get by with what we’ve got at present, and develop a permanent center later.”
Further, the latest NRC dictmus[sic] mean that Evett’s office must have provisions for two-way communications with the nuclear plant and with disaster preparedness officials in Columbia. And the communications links must be tested monthly. Evett said a base radio would have to be installed to provide the communications with Columbia, and he said Duke has provided a two-way unit for communications with Oconee. There are a total of over 190 new stipulations in the latest mandates handed down by the NRC, with some 86 affecting local governments. Almost all affect the Oconee Nuclear Station, Evett said.
The county’s new requirements include more stringent plans for nuclear disaster drills, including requirements for drills to be held at night and in the early morning hours. “We have a broad, basic plan at present, but in order to comply with the new NRC regulations, we’ll have to go into finer detail. This revised plan, with the new regulations, must be operational by June 30,” Evett advised. NRC staffers will be in Pickens County on Wednesday to discuss these new regulations with Evett, and a public hearing will be held 7 p.m., Thursday at the Oconee Visitor’s Center to allow input from area residents into the new requirements. “$300,000 Disaster Warning System.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 #42. 20, Feb 1980: Microfilm.
GI Victims Will Be Honored
The only memorial in South Carolina to American servicemen who died in Vietnam will be dedicated in ceremonies Sunday, May 25, at 4 p.m. at Tri-County Technical College. The memorial, a flag plaza bearing large marble markers with the names of the servicemen from Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties who died in Vietnam, is located at the main entrance to the campus of Tri-County Technical College.
The Honorable William Jennings Bryan Dorn, commander of the American Legion in South Carolina and long-time chairman of the U.S House of Representatives Veterans Affairs committee, will be the keynote speaker. Other parts of the program will include a military fly-by, a cannon volley salute and the laying of memorial wreaths.
“This is the only memorial to Vietnam veterans in our three counties and the only one that we know about in South Carolina,” said Dr. Don C. Garrison, president of Tri-County Technical College. “These servicemen paid the supreme sacrifice at the call of their country, and this memorial is our way of paying tribute to them for their valiant deed.” Dr. Garrison encourages everyone in the area to attend the ceremony “to show the families that their country has not forgotten.”
TEC officials need assistance in locating the survivors of the Vietnam victims. Anyone who can provide information about the parents or spouse of any of the men listed below is asked to contact the Information Services office at Tri-County TEC. The toll-free telephone numbers at Tri-County TEC are: Anderson County 225-2250, Oconee County 882-4412, Pickens County 850-7033, Clemson-Pendleton-Anderson 646-3227.
The American servicemen from Pickens County who died in Vietnam are: Barry Kenneth Alexander, David Forrest Black, Richard Hamilton Bridges, Robert Eugene Browning, Woodrow Beal Chastain, James Donald Clardy, James Arthur Dill, William Donald Garner, Jack Leroy Garrett, Dwight Oneal Gilstrap, James Donnie Howe, Charles Johnson, JR., Clifton Randel Jones, Jimmy Kemp, Lee Lewis, Ephriam Rutledge Liles, II, Samuel T. McDowell, Jr., Gary Lynn Pace, Jerry Alfred Phillips, Hershall Tallent, Jerry Hiott Williams, Joe David Wright. “GI Victims Will Be Honored.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 110, #3. 21 May 1980: Microfilm.
Reserves Called Out To Aid Mass Immunization
The Greenville an Pickens County Health Departments have called on the Army Reserve for assistance with special immunization clinics to be held Saturday, Aug. 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thanks to the local Army Reserve Unit, the 327 3rd U.S. Army Hospital Augmentation Unit, commanded by Major Larry M. Kowalski, “we will be well staffed to handle the large number of parents and students who will very likely be visiting health departments for shots and certificates,” said Dr. R.W. Penick, District Medical Director. “We are most grateful to the unit’s medical personnel for their kind offer of assistance. It should cut the waiting time for the public,” he said.
All personnel working on Saturday will be dedicated to the school immunization effort. No other services will be provided and the telephone switchboard will not be manned. Shots as well as certificates will be available at the Greenville Health Department on University Ridge and the Pickens County Health Department on McDaniel Avenue. People visiting the health departments are reminded to bring all immunization records with them. Additionally, if the child is under 16 years of age and needs a shot, he must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Revised state immunization regulations this year apply to every child in grades kindergarten through twelve. All students must have presented a S.C. certificate of imminuzation[sic] to school officials before being admitted to public, private or parochial school in August. The new regulations primarily affect students in grades nine through twelve who have never before had to show proof of protection before entering school.
Children in grades kindergarten through eight who entered school in 1973 or later should have already submitted the required immunization certificate to school officials. “Those students who have previously submitted a FULL certificate are not required to submit another one as long as the information was made a part of their school record,” explained Dr. Penick. “However, if school records don’t show a full certificate was recorded or if a ‘conditional certificate’ was recorded, the student must obtain a new certificate this year before he can be admitted,” he added. Under the 1972 regulations, a conditional certificate was issued to students who started their shots but could not complete them before school started. In many cases, the shots were never completed.
Students should not wait until the first day of school to present the certificate of immunization to school officials. The certificate should be taken to the school the child will attend as soon as possible after obtaining it. Schools are now open and manned Monday through Friday. “Reserves Called Out To Aid Mass Immunization.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 110 #15. 13 Aug 1980: Microfilm.
1976
Derrick Refuses To Endorse Anyone
Third District Congressman Butler Derrick told the Picken Rotary Club last week that, "I'm not publicly endorsing any" of the Presidential aspirants. But he said, "Jimmy Carter is a substantial candidate and I like 'Mo' Udall personally." "I think Jimmy carter may at least be a vice presidential possibility," said Derrick, whose district borders on the former Georgia governor's home state.
Asked what he thought of Sen Frank Church's chances for the Presidency. Derrick said, "I hope Church stands near the bottom." Derrick warned that "We can't go beyond a point where usefulness of the CIA and you can't trun the CIA loose and tell them to do whatever they want." On detente Derrick said, "Detente is a situation where tension is being reduced between two equally strong powers, but I believe we have compromised some of our national interests."
On other issues Derrick said:
"Price control is not a possibility this year."
"A lot of people in this state favor collective barganing short of going on strike."
"Seventy-five percent of the federal budget is uncontrollable."
"I don't think there will be any broad health care legislation in the next two years, but Congress wil respond to the feeling across the nation."
"I think we will enjoy an economic recovery in 1976, but it won't be a steep climb."
"The New York City situation made a lot of people realize there is a bottom of the barrel."
"I am glad we're out of Vietnam. At least we don't have troops over there."
"It is middle America that supports the tax loopholes and those on food stamps."
"There is a general dissatisfaction with the postal service."
"We need legislation to take care of the long term natural gas needs of the people in the Piedmont area."
"Derrick Refuses to Endorse Anyone." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #37. 21 Jan 1976: Microfilm.
Citizen Band Radio Operators Agree To Help In Crime Fight
Sixty-four Pickens County citizens from all section of the county attended the second meeting of the Pickens County Crime Watch Association Sunday for the purpose of "establishing and implementing a program whereby licensed Citizen Band Radio operators in Pickens County area might assist local law enforcement agencies." Denver Owen of Easley, president of the Pickens County Crime Watch Association, said, "This assistance is to be done by observation only, acting as extra eyes and ears and reporting by appropriate means any act of crime being committed or of a suspicious nature." "We are particularly interested in felony crimes," said Sheriff David Stone, who confirmed that he was running a routine background check on all CB radio volunteers who want to serve in the program.
Operation Crime Watch, organized Dec. 12, is to be under the control of local law enforcement agencies and by the direction of the Pickens County Crime Watch executive board. Sheriff Stone said he was for the program because he believes "it will help to reduce crime." Law enforcement agencies will have the privilege to maintain or discontinue the program at their discretion or to eliminate those participants from the program they deem undesireable, Owen said. "Mechanics and procedures of the operation are to be directed and maintained by the executive board to inuse that proper operation and responsibilities are carried out." Owen said. "Crime watchers will report to several stations around the county and persons at the stations will report to the sheriff's office," Stone said.
"In no way will law enforcement agencies or Crime Watch be responsible for the actions of those people participating in this program, leaving each member to act in good faith. But we will investigate complaints against any of our members," said Owen. "Participants in this program are not law enforcement personnel and are not to act as such. No flashing lights, sirens, or other emergency indicators are permitted on participant vehicles. At no time will automobiles pursue where violation of speed law occur. No weapons, guns, or other objects are to be used or carried by persons participating in this program," said Owen. "Interference by those engaged in the program with law enforcement personnel or other proper agencies, while carrying out their duty will be subject to arrest and prosecution by the law. Also, should law enforcement personnel request assistance and assistance by[sic] refused, arrest and prosecution will be possible," said Owen.
"Any licensed Citizen Band Radio operator interested in maintaining law and order and desiring to help curb crime in the area and willing to use his radio equipment in the proper manner during reporting of incidents and abide by those rules and regulations of the program is invited to attend the Crime Watch meetings each third Sunday in each month at the Pickens Counts Law Enforcement Center meeting room at 2 p.m.," said Owen.
"Citizen Ban Radio Operators Agree To Help In Crime Fight." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #37. 21 Jan 1976: Microfilm.
Asmus Will Help Re-enact 'First Shots'
Citadel cadet Robert Bryant Asmus of Pickens has been selected to serve in the elite "Palmetto Company" which will reenact the firing on the Federal steamer, STAR OF THE WEST, Feb. 7. Only 55 cadets were selected to participate in the Bicentennial event reenacting the opening shots of the Civil War.
Citadel cadets fired those shots on the steamer, STAR OF THE WEST, from a battery of 24 pound siege guns emplaced on Morris Island. They scored three hits and drove the ship away before she could deliver her troops and supplies to besieged Ft. Sumter. The 17 shots were the first of the Civil War preceeding the firing on Fort Sumter by more than three months.
Since the firing site on Morris Island has eroded and the public could not view the spectale there, the firing will actually take place from Charleston's Brittlebank Park onthe Ashley River adjacent to The Citadel campus. The Feb. 7 date is a month off the actual 115th anniversary of the original skirmish which took place on Jan. 9, 1861. That change was effected because The Citadel Corps of Cadets was on furlough in January.
The cadets are outfitted with authentic Civil War uniforms, vintage rifles, and cannon that are authentic replicas. The weapons are operable and will be fired during the dramatic reenactment timed to a historically accurate script. The Palmetto Company has been drilling with Confederate cannon and rifles several times weekly since November. It is necessary for the unit to perfect the Manual of 1861 and learn the necessary precautions and techniques for safely firing the weapons. The ship, actually a Gray Line tour boat will be decked out as a Civil War ship, complete with a paddle wheel. The reenactment, commencing at 11 a.m., is expected to draw many spectators, some of whom will be wearing costumes of that era.
A sophomore Navy-Marine ROTC student, Cadet Asmus is majoring in biology at The Citadel. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. H.R. Asmus, 101 Garner Road, Pickens.
"Asmus Will Help Re-enact 'First Shots'." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #39. 4 Feb 1976: Microfilm.
Pickens Countians 'Accidnet Prone'
For the average Pickens County resident, what are the chances of going through an entire year withouth[sic] having an accident of some sort? Are local people more likely or less likely to be involved in a trafic accident or a home accident than those in other communities? According to the latest government statistics, concerning the entire country, local residents are more accident prone than the average. The findings are based upon data compiled by the U.S. Public Health Service, in connection with its annual vital statistics survey, and upon reports from the National Safety Council.
Covered were all accidents in which Pickens County people were involved, wherever they took place, including those that occurred while driving, while at work, in the home, or while swimming, boating or hunting. Not included, however, were local accidents affecting non-residents. Taking into account the Government's last three annual report, it appears that there had been an average of 46 fatal accidents per year in the county. Motor vehicles were responsible for 15 of them. In terms of population, the annual toll in the area was at the rate of 75 fatalities per 100,000 people during the three year period. It was somewhat higher rate than was found in most other communities in the United States, where the average was 55 per 100,000. In the South Atlantic States it was 63.
The National Safety Council's latest figures show a big drop in the overall death toll from accidents, resulting in a saving of 11,000 lives in the past year alone. Some 9,300 of them were due to a decrease in motor vehicledeaths, attributed inlarge part to the fact that people did less driving and kept their speed down. However, despite the improvement, there was still no less that 105,000 accidental deaths in the United States. And, for every person who lost his life, there were mnore than 100 other who were seriously injured.
The National Safety Council estimates the economic loss involved, counting loss of wages, medical expenses, property damage and the like at $43.3 billion. Pickens County's share of this loss, applying the average cost per accident to the local area, comes to approximately $12,006,000.
"Pickens Countians 'Accident Prone'." Pickens Sentinel, vol 105 #45. 17 Mar 1976: Microfilm.
Clemson to Serve 11,000 Students
Clemson University has grown from four red brick buildings set atop a hill in northwestern South Carolina to a major center of modern higher education. It is the land-grant university of South Carolina and currently serves a body of about 11,000.
Clemson was founded in 1889, the result of a bequest to the state by Thomas G. Clemson, a tall soft-spoken engineer and agriculturalist who came to South Carolina from Pennsylvania in the 1830s. He married a daughter of statesman John C. Calhoun, who was a U.S. Senator and Vice President of the United States from 1825 to 32. "My purpose," Clemson wrote, "is to establish a college which will provide intellectual education...I do not exaggerate the importance of such an institution for developing the material resources of the state by affording its youth the advantage of scientific culture..." Clemson lobbied for his plan for several years but went to his grave without seeing it fulfilled. After his death in 1888 another man with equal foresight, Gov. Benjamin Ryan Tillman, took up his banner.
The courts tested the validity of Clemson's will, but "Pitchfork Ben" won his point. Construction began in 1890. In June 1893 Clemson Agricultural College began full-time operation with 15 faculty members and 446 students. Wright Bryan, 1926 alumnus and editor of the Clevland Plain Dealer, said in a 1956 commencement address, "Clemson has changed. Had it not, it would no longer exist." The truth in his words is demonstrated by the many changes at Clemson through the years. Clemson in the beginning was an all-male military institution with degrees conferred only in engineering and agriculture. The all-military status was dropped in 1955, with the retention of ROTC. Women were allowed to enroll, but only as day students becuase no dormitory facilities were available. The first women graduated in 1957. In 1963 the first women's dorms became available. Today women make up about 35 percent of the student body. The peaceful and dignified way in which the instituion handled racial integration in 1963 served as a model for other colleges and brought praise from around the country.
Clemson's physical apperance has undergone remarkable changes too. The campus is dotted with some very old buildings and many very new. The long heritage of the institution is embodied in stately structures like Tillman Hall (1893), Godfrey Hall (1808), Harding Hall (1890), and Holtzendorff YMCA (1915). The Calhoun Mansion with its tall columns and wooded grounds is a strong link to the history of the nation.
The main campus today consists of some 600 acres and represents over $87 million in academic buildings, housing, service facilities and equipment. Beyond the main campus, 21,000 acres of farm and forestry research lands stretch into Oconee, Pickens and Anderson Counties. Throughout the state 6,800 acres are devoted to Agricultureal Experiment Station research and 4-H activites. A central feature of recent campus development is the Robert C. Cooper Library, completed in 1966. This impressive structure houses over half a million volumes and is the permanent home of papers and souvenirs of Edgar A. Brown, James F. Byrnes, John C. Calhoun and other South Carolina Statesmen.
Other facilities completed in the past decade include three high-rise dormitories, a modern health care clinic, an east campus dining hall, an arts and sciences classroom building, a high-rise office building and the multi-purpose Littlejohn Coliseum. Others just completed or under construction include Buildings for the College of Nursing, agricultural administration, College of Forest and Recreation Resources, biological sciences and the Edgar A. Brown Student Union.
According to the 1975 report by the National Education Association, South Carolina ranks first int eh nation in percentage of increase in enrollment at institution of higher education. However, growth in numbers is not as impressive as growth in quality at Clemson. Steadily for the past 20 years, the university's incoming freshman class has come from high school students with higher class standings. Last year, 58 percent of the freshman class graduated in the top 20 percent of their high school.
"Clemson To Serve 11,000 Students." Pickens Sentinel: vol 106 #8. 20 June 1976: Microfilm.
1977
Easley Mother Sentenced In Son's Beating Death
An Easley woman was sentenced to life in prison at about 8:10 p.m. Tuesday after a Pickens County jury found her guilty of murder in the death of her 13 year old son. Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor Billy Wilkins argued That Mrs. Bessie Mae Blassingame, 32, hit and killed her son with a whiskey bottle while he was in bed at home. Judge John Gentry announced the sentence."Mrs. Blassingame's son, David, died about 3:45 a.m. Feb. 19 in Easley Baptist Hospital after being admitted about midnight," Dr. J.R. Mahanes, attending surgeon, said. Another physician, Dr. James Pruitt, a pathologist at Oconee Memorial Hospital testified death was caused by a blow on the boy's head by a blunt object. A gallon whiskey bottle was placed in evidence as the murder instrument by the prosecution.
"A blood test conducted on the defendant the night of the incident indicated a blood alcohol content of .268 percent:, a lab technician from Greenville General Hospital testified. Wilkins said the law presumes intoxication after the blood alcohol content of a person's body passed .10 percent.
The woman's husband, Frank Blassingame, was not at the home when the incident occurred. He has been arrested by Easley police earlier in the evening and charged with a traffic violation, testimony indicated.
The defense did not present any witnesses, but argued the prosecution had failed to prove Mrs. Blassingame did it. The defendant held that she was innocent after the jury reported.
"Easley Mother Sentenced In Son's Beating Death." Pickens Sentinel, vol 106 #47. 30 Mar 1977: Microfilm.
Singer Announces $8.8 Million Expansion
An $8.8 million expansion program for The Singer Company's Power Tool Division was announced Wednesday by Eugene L. Holland, Division President. The expansion will add 120,000 square feet of manufacturing floor space to the Clarksville, Arkansas plant. An additional 40,000 square feet will be added to the Pickens plant, which includes die casting and power tool facilities. Construction will begin in the immediate future and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.Singer's Power Tool Division, headquartered in Pickens’s, includes a manufacturing plant and die casting facility at Pickens and a satellite manufacturing plant at Clarksville. The division manufactures Craftsman portable electric tools for Sears, Roebuck and Co. "This is the second expansion by the Power Tool Division in the last two years," Mr. Holland said, "and will provide for the immediate capacity needs of the division. "In addition, employment at the Clarksville facility is expected to increase approximately 50 percent in the next 12 months," Holland added.
According to Holland, the employment at the Clarksville plant has increased more than 400 percent since it opened in April 1972. Built by Singer in 1972, the Clarksville plant, located on a 66 acre tract, includes 120,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space designed for easy expansion. The Pickens plant expansion will be primarily allotted to warehouse space and additional key manufacturing equipment. Employment is expected to remain at its present level.
Holland stated that this expansion and the continued success of Singer's Power Tool Division is a "direct result of the dedication to excellence of the Clarksville and Pickens work force in producing portable electric tools for Sears."
Singer is a worldwide manufacturer and marketer in three major business areas: Sewing Products, Products Manufactured for the Consumer, and Products and Services for Government.
"Singer Announces $8.8 Million Expansion." Pickens Sentinel, vol 106 #49. 13 April 1977: Microfilm.
Computerized Phone Service Begins in Pickens On June 25
Southern Bell telephone customers in Pickens will benefit from the technology of computerized telephone service beginning June 25. On the date the new Electronic Switching System (ESS) office on Cedar Rock Street in Pickens will begin handling the switching of telephone calls of customers served by Southern Bell's 878 exchange.The new facility, similar to the ESS office on the Abbeville Highway, which serves Southern Anderson, has the capacity to handle 6,100 phone lines. There are now about 4,000 lines in the 878 area. This new office will make it possible for the company to offer some new calling features designed to make telephone service more convenient and useful. Touch-Tone (pushbutton) service and Custom Calling features will be available for a small additional monthly amount.
All coin telephones in the area will have "dial tone first." Coin telephone users will get the dial tone without depositing a coin. This service is helpful in placing long distance calls and in reaching an operator in case of an emergency. Automatic Number Identification (ANI) service will also be effective on June 25. ANI provides automatic identification of customers' telephone call when this new telephone facility goes into service.
It will be necessary to dial all seven digits of the telephone number to complete a telephone call when this new telephone facility goes in.
Large gold and blue cares placed on homes in area that do not have specific street number addresses are helping Southern Bell give new telephone customers faster installation service. The five by 10 inch cards are being placed near front and rear entrances of homes without specific street addresses that have been vacated by Southern Bell customers. The stickers have the telephone number of the former occupant. When new occupants move into the house and request telephone service, they tell the phone company service representative the phone number on the card. This makes it faster for the telephone company to locate the records which give information needed for installing a new phone. And this, in turn, speeds up the telephone installation process for the new occupant.
According to J.K. Swygert, Southern Bell Anderson District Plant Manager, using the cards for homes with indefinite street address "speeds up the installation process so that we can get telephone service for the new resident within our normal two-day appointment time. Without this information the process could be delayed several days."
"Computerized Phone Service Begins in Pickens On June 25." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #6. 15 June 1977: Microfilm.
Pickens Called Disaster Area
Vern F. Amick, district director of the Small Business Administration in Columbia, Aug. 11 announced that A. Vernon Weaver, has declared 42 S.C. counties including Pickens, as disaster areas. This declaration is a direct result of the severe crop losses during the drought of the 1977 crop year.Farmers sustaining a loss due to this drought will be eligible for long-term financing from SBA to cover the cost of planting during the new crop year. Applications for Farm Physical Disaster Loans may be filled directly with SBA from now through Oct. 11, 1977. The interest rate on this type loan in 3 per cent up to $250,000 and 6 5/8 percent for loans exceeding this amount. Also, Economic Disaster Injury Loans (EDIL) are available to both agricultural and non-agricultural businesses sustaining verified substantial economic injury as a direct result of the drought. Application for EDI loans may be filed until May 10, 1978. The interest rate on the EDI loans is three percent on amounts up to $25,000 and six and five eights percent on loan amounts exceeding this up to a maximum of $500,000 per loan.
Amick stated that providing physical disaster loans to farmers is a first for SBA and that this district office will respond to this disaster in the most efficient and effective manner possible to aid the farmers and businesses adversely affected by recent drought conditions.
On Wednesday, Aug. 17, four temporary disaster field offices will be opened at strategic locations throughout the state. Hours of operation of each office will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. through 1 p.m. on Saturdays. The area disaster office is Spartanburg Federal Building, 201 Magnolia Street, 2nd Floor, Rooms 204 and 206. Telephone numbers will be available by calling information in each of the cities.
Amick has asked the affected farmers and businesses to keep abreast with the local media since additional information and changes that occur will be publicized.
"Pickens Called Disaster Area." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #15. 17 Aug 1977: Microfilm.
1978
Probe Planned of Easley Police 'Brutality'
Easley Mayor Charles Ellenburg said late Tuesday afternoon he has been with Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor Billy Wilkins to discuss the matter of a thorough investigation into the city's police department. Mayor Ellenburg said Monday afternoon he plans to seek an investigation into allegations of police brutality and false arrest against the Easley Police Department.Ellenburg's announcement followed Easley Police Chief Kenneth Holcombe's statement earlier Monday that he wanted an investigation of Ellenburg's recent accusation that Easley police officers had been involved in alleged beating of suspects last summer. The chief said he has already made the request to the city council. "Permission for the investigation will be given if council deems necessary to clear the department." Holcombe said. The chief said he does not know what agency will conduct the investigation but said it could be the FBI of State Law Enforcement Division.
Several members of the Easley Police Department also agreed this weekend to send city council a letter requesting an investigation and asking that Ellenburg make a public apology for allegations of police brutality. Ellenburg made the accusations at a Jan. 9 city council meeting after Councilman Frank Waldrop asked for a change in the city's form of government. Waldrop said Ellenburg has been "on the back of Chief Holcombe and the police department" since the mayor took office last spring.
At that meeting, Ellenburg raised the allegation that a handcuffed suspect was struck by a police officer July 24 after a chase and collision of a private car and police vehicle. That suspect later signed a document releasing the police department and the officer involved from any liability in exchange for not pressing charges against him in connection with the chase incident, police records show.
Asked whether Ellenburg's allegations had caused problems within the department Holcombe said, "yes, it has." "There has been no charge of police brutality against the Easley Police Department," Holcombe said. "There have been no beatings," he said.
On Monday, Buford Julian York, 19, of 1 Jackson St., Liberty, driver of the private car in that chase, told Ellenburg and reporters that on July 24 he and his brother-in-law, Wendell Taylor were chased down South Fifth Street, up Pendleton Street, and to the entrance ramp of U.S. Highway 123 Bypass by, then Captain of Detectives Larry Thomas. York said Thomas' unmarked car did not have a blue light or siren. He said he entered the ramp, then saw two police patrol cars coming toward him. He said he made a sharp U-turn, headed back down the ramp, and struck Thomas' car.
Thomas, however, said he called for assistance while following York and that police in a marked patrol car, with siren and blue light, pursued the suspect. York said he and his brother-in-law were handcuffed and were struck by officers. Police, however, have denied that York was struck. Police Chief Holcombe, however, has confirmed that York's brother-in-law was struck by an officer, who he said was later reprimanded. York said although he was suffering from severe neck pains when taken to police headquarters, police refused to take him to the hospital. Officer Jan Kelly, who administered a breathalyzer test to York, said he asked the suspect whether he wanted to go to the hospital for a blood test and that York refused. "York told me he didn't want to go to the hospital, he just wanted to be locked up," Kelly said.
York later pleaded guilty to failing to stop for a blue light, driving under the influence (first offense) and no driver's license, police records show. York also alleged that officer Kelley, who gave him the breathalyzer test must be administered by an officer not at the scene of the arrest. Kelly, however, said he was at home in bed when the incident occurred about 10 p.m. July 24. He said he was called to the department to give the test.
York's statements were made in Ellenburg's office after he had requested an appointment with the mayor. He agreed to talk in front of reporters. Ellenburg said he had never met York before. "I know nothing about the young man and his testimony except for what I heard this afternoon," he said.
Police records show that Wendell Taylor, York's brother-in-law, signed a document after the incident, releasing the police department and Mike Crawford, the officer who allegedly struck him, from any liability after they promised no charges would be brought against him in connection with the incident.
The false-arrest allegation stems from a disagreement between Ellenburg and police officers concerning the legality of several arrests, some of which were for minor incidents. But in at least one, in which Ellenburg contends officers falsely accused an Easley resident of having an open beer in his possession while the man was cleaning a local night spot early Sunday morning. The man contended the beer was in a cooler, but police said it was open. Ellenburg said after the solicitor's opinion was obtained, the man's bond money was refused.
Both Ellenburg and Holcombe said Monday they wanted to "get to the bottom of this thing" as soon as possible. Ellenburg told council last Monday that Easley police had been involved in an incident last summer in which a suspect arrested for reckless driving was allegedly beaten by an officer. "Some people were stopped driving a car that had been in an accident. They were handcuffed and beaten up by the police department, " Ellenburg said at the council meeting.
"Probe Planned of Easley Police 'Brutality'." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #37. 18 Jan 1978: Microfilm.
U.S. Is Getting Far Behind Reds, Clemson ROTC Instructor Warns
"The U.S. is getting so far behind the Soviet Union it is absolutely frightening," says major John Griffin. Griffin, who currently teaches military science to some of the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps' 130 Clemson University cadets says, "The Soviets could become so strong conventionally that they would move swiftly across Europe." "I don't think people in this country recognize the threat of the Communists. They are expanding all over the world," says Griffin, who lives at Six Mile. "We can have the best people, but we need the best equipment and materials. If the Soviets feel they can take great risks, I think they will take them," says Griffin, "Detente is fine with strength, but the aggressor only understands raw power."Says Griffin, who has served in the U.S. Air Force for 13 years, "If the enemy perceives a lack of resolve they may underestimate us and try something. They have a tremendous civil defense program in Russia and they have their evacuation programs. Also there isn't as much emphasis on human life in their country. And what civil defense plans do we have in this country?" Griffin warns that the Soviets are developing an anti-missile system which can stop anything the U.S. has other than something like the Cruise missile which travels at a level below where most anti-missile systems would pick it up.
Quoting from "The Commanders Digest" Griffin says, "Soviet tank inventories exceed ours by nearly four to one. They have built a modern, capable, tactical aircraft force which now exceeds ours numerically. Only in helicopters do we maintain clear superiority." "The Soviets have come from about 225 intercontinental ballistic missiles to some 1,000, having overtaken the U.S. in the late 1960's. The Soviet submarine launched ballistic missile system has grown from 29 to more than 700. The Soviets have a 2.5 to one advantage in attack submarines. They have 20 percent greater numbers of cruisers, destroyers and frigates. The U.S. does have an advantage in aircraft carriers," says Griffin. "The active fleet of U.S. Navy ships has dropped from 947 to fewer than 480 over the past ten years," says Griffin, "Defense spending's share of the federal budget is the lowest since shortly before Pearl Harbor."
Griffin says the U.S. needs money spent for research and development. "We all benefit from this. American computers can be traced to military research and development. But when we get these computers we should not sell them to the Soviets. We spent a lot to develop these computers," says Griffin, a graduate of Pickens High School. Griffin, who has travelled to 34 countries through military service says, "The military is an honorable profession. There is an awful lot of integrity in the Armed Forces...people who tell it like it is. Todays[sic] military is also quite technical. We need bright people."
Through his teaching at Clemson University Griffin has become acquainted with survey information which tells the attitudes of young people entering ROTC in recent years. "They have a love of country and they believe in patriotism. They want to help their country. Young people are beginning to know this is the greatest country," says Griffin, "I hope we will return to the resolve we had as a country during the Berlin Airlift when we refused to let the people of West Berlin be starved out by the Communists."
"Pickens County is a great place to live and we have great people. Bright young people from the county may want to consider the Air Force. They can go off for a number of years and then return to Pickens," says Griffin, "We are looking for quality people with technical skills in today's Air Force." While Griffin is concerned about the fact the U.S. is no longer manufacturing the B-52 bomber or any other suitable replacement to the B-52, he still believes in the kind of people found across America who have faith in God and faith in their country. He tells of many who stood the overwhelming test of torture at the hands of the Vietnamese Communists. "Faith pulled some of them through," says Griffin.
"U.S. IS Getting Far Behind Reds, Clemson ROTC Instructor Warns." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #40. 08 Feb 1978: Microfilm.
Bob Nash Wins Council Seat
Bob Nash of Central became the first Republican in modern history to win a contested county government election Tuesday, defeating Donald Allsep of Six Mile for county seat two, 362 to 246. Nash carried Central, Clemson, and Mountain View precincts and ran stronger than expected in the Six Mile and Praters precincts. Allsep had 26 absentee votes to none for Nash and Allsep carried Norris 13 to three.Nash, a former Pickens County Republican chairman, carried his home precinct at Central 235 to 13. He is a professor at Central Wesleyan College. Nash also carried the portion of the Clemson precinct which is in county council district two 50 to five and lost at Mountain View six to nine.
Allsep, a Six Mile businessman, won his home precinct 141 to 45 and edged Nash at Praters 39 to 27. Allsep has already filed in the June Democratic primary for the same council set as Nash in the Republican primary. Neither has opposition, meaning they will face each other again in the November general election.
Tuesday's election was to fill the unexpired term on council of Roy Collins, who resigned to accept appointment as county supervisor. Collins, who was also a Republican when elected, was not contested by the Democrats when he ran two years ago. The only other persons elected on the Republican ticket in Pickens County were Rep. Ed Simpson of Clemson for the State House of Representatives and Solicitor Billy Wilkins, who was running in a two county district.
Pickens County Republican Chairman Frank Kolb said, "This is really a victory for Bob Nash, but it shows the voters of Pickens County are independent and will vote for the man rather than the party."
"Bob Nash Wins Council Seat." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #48. 05 April 1978: Microfilm.
Instant Driver's License In Use
You might never again have to drive around with a paper receipt in your pocket while you wait for your renewed driver's license to arrive in the mail. Beginning next week, the South Carolina Department of Highways and Public Transportation will issue across the counter, instant driver's licenses in 25 Motor Vehicle Division license offices across the state. These offices are in Aiken, Anderson, Beaufort, Charleston (two locations), Chester, Chesterfield, Columbia, Conway, Florence, Gaffney, Georgetown, Greenville (two locations), Greenwood, Greer, Lancaster, Laurens, Moncks Corner, Orangeburg, Pickens, Rock Hill, Seneca, Spartanburg, and Sumter.By the end of April, the Department expects that the new instant licenses will be issued in all 56 of its field license offices. The new licenses will be printed on two-mil polyester laminated material which can't be torn and which is available only for government use. It will feature a larger color photograph than the previous licenses had, and it will be thinner. License restriction codes and explanations will be attached to the back of the license. The new licenses will be made possible through the use of new cameras and processing equipment purchased by the Department with federal grant money.
Here's how the new procedure will work. When a person's license is due for renewal, he will receive a renewal card in the mail approximately 30 days prior to his renewal date. If he takes this form to the driver's license office and presents it as evidence of his authority to renew, his license can be prepared and he can be on his way in a matter of about ten minutes. If he does not have his renewal card with him, the process will take a little longer while Department personnel determine if he is eligible for a license. A.W. Utsey, assistant director of the Motor Vehicle Division says, "We're hoping that at least 50 percent of the people will come in with that renewal card. If we have 50 percent we think we'll be doing good."
The department is also installing a new system of computer and video terminals and printers in these same offices. This new communications network, which will be completed by the end of the summer, "opens up a whole new area of communications as far as our field offices are concerned, " says Mr. Utsey. They system will give personnel in the local offices instantaneous access to computer files stored in Motor Vehicle Division offices in Columbia, and will enable them to make immediate decisions on such things as whether a person is entitled to a driver's license, vehicle registration and tags. The first computer terminals have already been installed in the busiest MVD centers around the state, and printers will be installed in the same offices by the end of April. The other offices will get printers and terminals, possibly in June.
The Department has conducted seminars in Greenville, Charleston and Columbia to train about 350 employees in the use of the new photographic equipment.
"Instant Driver's License In Use." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #48. 05 April 1978: Microfilm.
Live Shell Is Found At County Museum
An artillery shell of World War I vintage was discovered to be live at the Pickens County Historical Museum Friday. Contacted by a museum employe[sic], the Pickens County Sheriff's Department immediately called Fort Jackson's demolition specialists who were dispatched to Pickens. Lt. Buddy Duncan and Detective Jerry Duncan carried the shell, which had been recently donated to the museum from the museum to the Pickens County Law Enforcement Center. Within two and a half hours two specialists had arrived in Pickens from Fort Jackson and by 9 p.m., Friday the shell was detonated in a lot adjoining the law enforcement center. The soldiers used plastic explosives with a timer to ignite the 60-year-old artillery shell.Detective Duncan said he had no training in handling live explosives, so he buried the shell in some soft dirt next to the law enforcement center, ending the arrival of the team from Fort Jackson. Chief Deputy Randall Stewart said, "We are very fortunate no one was hurt. I'm glad we got our hands on it before it fell to the floor or some child played with it." Stewart descried the explosive as a flip, flop type mortar shell containing black powder. It had a shotgun primer that set off on impact, said Stewart.
Detective Duncan learned that the shell was brought Wednesday to the museum and was there two days before being reported. It came from an old ammo tunnel at the corner of Wade Hampton and Artillery Rd. in the Taylors section of Greenville County. It was believed to have come from the old Camp Sevier. Chief Stewart said, "People, if you find one of these old shells please contact your local law enforcement people."
Chief Stewart said there will be no charges made against anyone in the incident, since no one was hurt and no harm had been intended by anyone.
"Live Shell Is Found At County Museum." Pickens Sentinel, vol 107 #50. 19 April 1978: Microfilm.
1979
Color Photographs Won’t Be Accepted
The policy of The Sentinel is that black and white photographs are required for printing purposes. Color photographs will not be accepted. Persons planning to have engagement, wedding or anniversary photographs printed in the newspaper should make prior arrangements so that someone takes black and white photographs.The Sentinel policy is designed to do justice to the event with a suitable photograph. Color photography is not suitable for The Sentinel’s offset printing production. The Sentinel’s photography policy also requires that black and white photographs be up to minimum printing standards. It is important for printing purposes that the photographs submitted to The Sentinel have contrast. Photographs which lack definition and in which head of the subject blends with the background are not suitable for publication.
Photographs will only be printed in The Sentinel after being formally accepted by the editor or other person with responsibility in the area of the graphic arts.
“Color Photographs Won’t Be Accepted.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 108 #35. 03 Jan 1979: Microfilm.
Liberty Police Captain Is A Pretty Lady
She’s 21, single, attractive and a police captain. No, it’s not the pilot for a TV “midseason replacement series.” It is the profile of Captain Vickie Vaughn, Operations Officer for the Liberty Police Department. Although petite and soft-spoken, the brunette has a no-nonsense demeanor as she talks matter-of-factly about her job as a “beat officer” and supervisor over men in a realm that is traditionally theirs. But the “lady cop” received the stamp of approval from her male counterparts when they voter her the 1977 LPD “Officer of the Year”, and after she had been on the job less than two years.Captain Vaughn showed her interest in police work from the start. After graduating from Pickens High School in 1975, she went to work as a records clerk for the Greenville Police Services Bureau. A year later, she signed on as an auxiliary officer for the Liberty Police Department. Then, six months later, in January, 1977, this daughter of Mrs. Margaret Vaughn of Pickens, was sworn in as the first regular female police officer in Liberty’s history. Saying she didn’t look upon the acquisition of her new job as a victory for women’s lib as such, Ms. Vaughn simply explains that she wanted a job with variety.
Chief Gregg Masceri, while voicing generous adulation now for her competence and abilities, concedes he was skeptical at first: “I had several applicants for the one opening we had, but she was the most qualified, and I was reluctant not to hire her because she was a woman. Still, I felt she would quit when she saw what really was involved in the job.” Laughing as he reflects have upon his thinking two years ago, Masceri adds, “Then she proved she could do the job.”
Vicki Vaughn came up through the ranks, and she did it rapidly. “Because,” affirms Masceri, “she can make decisions quickly on the field; she’s a very capable, qualified officer.” How can a woman patrol officer function on the field when she’s limited in the traditional use of brute force in law enforcement are over. It doesn’t take manpower or physical power to do the work anymore.” He says his female captain is effective, because men, even those who are intoxicated, “respect women officers, resulting in their having an easier time with men than with women.” Masceri says a man simply has an instinct to respect women no matter how drunk he is or who he is. Captain Vaughn echoes this thinking, nothing “I’d much rather arrest a drunk man than a woman who is intoxicated.
Vaughn is now second-in-command in the Liberty department, because the assistant police chief’s slot is vacant. But she says this poses no problems for her, “I don’t think the men look upon me as a woman, they know I’m a supervisor, and I hope I’ve got their respect in being a supervisor. I think I have.” She affirms, “I feel I have the same job to do as a man would as a police officer; it’s no different to me, really.” She says she spends more time behind the desk than do her male subordinates. Making out the officers work schedules, being in charge of the second shift, and working as Masceri’s assistant in administration keeps Captain Vaughn bust forty hours a week (and then some). And she calmly declares that the decision-making role required in her job is simply a matter of deciding to do something and then doing it. “You can’t sit there fifteen minutes when there’s a decision to be made; you’ve just got to make the decision.”
A concern that merchants and citizens alike work more closely with law enforcement in interwoven throughout Captain Vaughn’s conversation. “Citizens could help us by making their homes more secure, and merchants by making sure all their entrances are secure. Also merchants can help by having an adequate alarm system to notify us of any problem on those occasions when we get tied up.” The lady officer then adds, “I’d like to see parents teach their children more respect for police officers, but I think a lot of times their parents influence them in the wrong way, by saying things like, ‘if you’re bad, I’m going to get a police officer to come lock you up.’ This makes children scared of police officers.”
Captain Vaughn said she finds answering domestic calls “very unpleasant.” “We get called out and find ourselves in the middle, between the husband and the wife. They want us to work a miracle, but it doesn’t happen that way,” she declares. The slightly built officer says she doesn’t carry a nightstick or slapstick when on patrol, “I just carry my service revolver, but I’ve never had to draw it.” She says whenever there’s any trouble, like a fight at a local tavern, the male officers are usually there to back her up. Sometimes, however, Vaughn says she’s in the think of it alone, “I just try to keep my wits about me and stay calm” she adds.
A graduate of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy, she says trainees are taught basic judo tactics to help them in tight spots, but she emphasizes that keeping a cool head and maintaining a sense of control over any dilemma is still crucial. But what’s it like when she stops a man for speeding? “Sometimes he’ll just sit there and stare at me while I’m writing his ticket.”
“Liberty Police Captain Is A Pretty Lady.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 108 #39. 31 Jan 1979: Microfilm.
‘Freedom For Hostages First Priority,’ Butler Derrick Says
Congressman Butler Derrick told The Sentinel Tuesday that “the first priority in this situation must be to get the American hostages out of there” (the embassy in Tehran). “We are being black-mailed and mis-used in Iran,” said Derrick, “I believe the people in my district are tired of being trampled on, but they don’t want war.” “I don’t want to see us get into another Vietnam,” said Derrick, “If we have way, let’s declare it a war and handle it like a war.”Saying he was trying to remain quiet on the Iran crisis, Derrick told The Sentinel, “I’m trying to be responsible. I don’t want to grandstand politically because of the seriousness of the situation.” Derrick says he feels he is being kept properly informed by the State Department. “Congress can get any information we want over there in the Middle East. The State Department is keeping Congress informed concerning the situation in the Middle East,” said Derrick. Asked about Washington Post reports that the Pakistani Army had not responded to the attack on the American Embassy for five hours, Derrick said he didn’t get his information from the Washington Post, but from the State Department.
Derrick said he has been involved in top secret briefings on the situation in Pakistan and that he was satisfied the Pakistani government had responded quickly and adequately to the embassy attack. Two Americans were killed in the Pakistani riots against America last week. Derrick said he did not think these killings were enough to go to war over. “Accidents happen even in this country,” he said. Asked how many Americans had to be killed to bring the American government into a war, Derrick said he could not give any certain number or tell how the government into a war, Derrick said he could not give any certain number or tell how the government should act “in a hypothetical case.” While Derrick is not making speaking engagements on the crisis in Iran, he is responding to questions from constituents concerned about the situation. His office phone is 1-202-225-5301.
“Freedom For Hostages First Priority,’ Butler Derrick Says.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 # 30. 28 Nov 1979: Microfilm.
Black Disco Stirs Easley
An irate group of Easley residents, appearing before their city council Monday night to seek relief from a newly-opened disco lounge, agreed to work for a “meeting of the minds” with the disco owners. Otherwise, city attorney John Gentry pointedly advised, court action might be their only alternative. Residents of streets adjacent to the Discotheque Lounge, located at 302 Washington Avenue Extension, just south of the 123 bypass, told council members they were “Appealing for relief from what the nuisance” created by patrons of the night spot.Chief spokesman for the group, Leonard Looper, contended the lounge is creating a disturbance into the early morning hours. He said the loud music and talking, combined with cars both parking along the streets and speeding down those streets, while using resident’s driveways for turning around, has created a very unpleasant situation. Further, Looper said, the patrons are using yards and driveways “for a bathroom,” and are littering the area with beer cans and other debris. He charged the city with having allowed the problem to develop, contending Easley officials had issued the license without first checking to see if the disco would be up to building code standards for the maximum number of people the building would hold and the number of cars which could be gotten into the parking lot.
Looper then presented city officials with photo copies of new book pages defining “nuisance,” and he presented a petition signed by neighborhood residents, asking council to revoke the lounge’s license, issued on Oct. 22. Next, Joe Garrett, another neighborhood resident, told council he lives only about 88 feet from the building, and “I need some sleep,” said Garrett. He told council members beer cans and other litter thrown on his property was concrete evidence of his complaint. “If you want to see it, it’s down there; I’m not picking it up anymore,” Garrett flatly stated. After telling council members, “you’re invited down for coffee and cake at two or three o’clock in the morning, because I’ll be up anyway,” Garrett joined with Looper in telling city fathers “we rest our cases.”
City attorney and former county judge John Gentry, however, advise that if the license was revoked, the owners of the disco lounge could take the city to court, demanding that Easley officials “show cause” for revoking the business license. The attorney further told the unhappy residents they could seek a court injunction against the operation of the night spot, but Gentry said those were the only choices. Responding to Looper’s statement that he “rested his case” with council, Gentry affirmed: “This is a city council and not a court of law; the court of common pleas is a place where it should be rested.” He said if the matter wound up in court, sworn testimony would be taken from both sides so the court could determine whether the lounge’s operation did constitute a legal nuisance.
Mayor Charles Ellenburg told the petitioning residents the state Alcoholic Beverage Commission had the lounge’s application for a beer and wine license “on hold” because of the complaints, and said the mayor: “I have repeatedly said, somebody will have to sign a warrant.” Looper and his neighbors, however, contended they didn’t want to sign warrants, adding they weren’t against the disco, but simply wanted the noise, littering and inappropriate activities stopped. At one point, when Looper and Gentry clashed over the city’s inability to resolve the matter, well-known local businessman Marvin Garrett, sitting in the back of the crowded council chambers, calmly urged: “I think we’d better listen to Brother John (Gentry).”
The mayor and council then agreed they would meet Thursday afternoon at 4:30 city hall with a group of the discontented residents, with Jack Breazeale, a respected leader in the city’s black community and with the three owners of the disco lounge. City officials later said they felt confident a “meeting of minds” could be reached shortly in the controversy. City fathers Monday night also gave first reading approval to the budget for 1980. Second and final approval must be given $1,613,612 budget before January first.
“Black Disco Stirs Easley.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109, #32. 12 Dec 1979: Microfilm.
1980
Table Rock Mountain Mystery Still Unsolved
The most extensive search ever conducted at Table Rock has failed to produce a single substantial clue as to the whereabouts of a young Berea man, presumed missing on the mountain since four days before Christmas. That was the assessment given Wednesday by Pickens County Civil Defense Director Don Evett after over 2,000 man-hours of searching for Steve Smith, 23, a student at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland, Florida. Because the search has produced no clues, Evett said the efforts were being cut back.Smith, a second year student at the Assembly of God College near Tampa, flew home from school on Dec. 7, to spend the holidays with his family. As Eagle Scout and experienced outdoorsman, Smith reportedly went hiking at Table Rock on Thursday, Dec. 30 after also reportedly having hiked on the mountain about three years ago. The following day, the ministerial student had lunch with his father, telling the elder Smith he wanted to get a haircut. His father told authorities he gave his son ten dollars before leaving him at 12:15 that mid-day.
Smith was driving his brother’s blue Volkswagen, and the car was first spotted in the parking lot at Table Rock around 5 p.m., Friday by park rangers. Because of visitors to the park, the rangers didn’t become concerned until the car remained in the parking lot overnight. On Saturday, Assistant Park Superintendant Robert Sullivan requested the sheriff’s department to run the license tag through the state department of motor vehicles, but the computer in Columbia threw the card back out, indicating that the tag number wasn’t on file.
Sullivan wasn’t too concerned at first, because according to park superintendant Mike Hendrix, college students frequently come into the park to camp out during vacation periods. When the VW was not moved by the first of the week, however, Sullivan again had the tag run through, and this time the DMV came up with the identity of the owner. The car was then connected with the missing person’s bulletin which Smith’s parents had filed on Saturday with Greenville authorities when their son failed to return home.
Hendrix had been on vacation in the lowcountry, but he cut short his holiday and returned to Table Rock when Sullivan advised him of the missing person bulletin out for the presumed driver of the car. Civil defense director Evett was advised of the situation around 7:30 Christmas night, and within a short time, had a team of rescue squad personnel searching the hiking tail at the state park. On Wednesday, a massive ground and air search was organized, covering some 24,000 acres of Table Rock and Pinnacle Mountains, as well as the Greenville watershed (reservoir). Evett said there were an average of 65 men per day involved in the search during the latter part of Christmas week and over 100 men involved during the weekend.
He estimated that in excess of 2,000 man-hours had been spent searching the mountain, in addition to the time, money and effort given by the wives of rescue squad personnel and Boy Scout leaders in preparing hot meals for the searchers at the scene. Further, Evett said a state wildlife department helicopter spent five hours combing the rugged terrain from the air, in addition to three hours logged by private plane last week and this in the search. Evett commented all those involved in the search efforts, including rescue squad volunteers from the Easley, Liberty, Pickens, and Central unit, county sheriff’s deputies and state wildlife officers, personnel from the Greenville Watershed, about 20 of Smith’s fellow Eagle Scouts from Greenville and “other volunteers.”
“All these people performed about and beyond the call of duty, and we’re deeply grateful for their work,” affirmed Evett. He said late Wednesday that unless some substantial clue was found as to Smith’s presence of the mountain, search efforts, which were cut back Tuesday, would continue on a “low scale.” The civil defense director, (who, incidentally began work as full-time director only Tuesday) Wednesday gave this overall assessment of the situation: “We have reason to believe that Steve went hiking at Table Rock on Friday, Dec. 21. Since his car was in the parking lot, we have operated under the assumption that he possibly could still be in the mountain area.”
Evett also reflected upon the young man’s being an Eagle Scout, “his father, Gene Smith, told us, ‘Steve, was out-of-doors and should know what to do in the even something happened to him.’” While not ruling out the possibility that Smith could have injured himself on the mountain, Evett pointed out that searchers had combed the mountain extensively. He said had the hiker attempted to start a fire, it would have been spotted. He added that the helicopter crew had operated under conditions of excellent visibility and would have been able to pick out red boundary markers on the trees on the mountainside.
Officials evaluated the significance of one report that a young man resembling Smith had been seen logging in the park on his disappearance. Further, searchers found the letters S-M-I-T scratched in the dirt at a fork on Table Rock trail. An arrow had also been drawn pointing in the direction of Table Rock. While not discounting the possible significance of these two reports, Evett said, “We’ve checked these things out and have drawn a total blank.”
The Sentinel Wednesday talked by phone with Jamie Gaulden, assistant dean of men at Smith’s Southeastern Bible College, and was told he “was a good student and worked at a church in Tampa.” Gaulden further said everyone at the school was concerned over Smith’s safety and earnestly hoped and prayed he would be found alive and well.
“Table Rock Mountain Mystery Still Unsolved.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 #35. 02 Jan 1980: Microfilm.
I want to add that this was the first paper of the new decade. The other articles on the front page contained one or two more murders, two larceny articles, and a fatal fire. Great way to start the decade with a bang!
$300,000 Disaster Warning System
New regulations recently handed down by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, in the wake of the Three Mile Island, are going to mean that either Duke Power Co. or the Pickens and Oconee Civil Defense offices will have to be responsible for providing an emergency warning system to all residences within ten miles of the Oconee Nuclear Station. The system must be capable of providing a warning within 15 minutes of a nuclear mishap, to notify the public of the need to evacuate.Although several options are available for providing the system, it must be in place by January of next year, or Duke could have its license for operating the nuclear plant revoked. And providing the warning system may well cost in excess of $300,000 for Pickens County alone, in addition to the cost incurred by Oconee County. Pickens County Civil Defense Director Don Evett said the county may be able to obtain a federal grant for at least part of the system’s cost, but if Duke installs the new warning system, utility officials say the cost would have to be passed along to customers.
Options being considered include a siren system, a special telephone company ringing system or individual weather service radios, which would be activated by a tone from the weather bureau in Greer. Evett said the siren system is almost out of the question because one of the multi-tone sirens, each of which have its own tower and emergency generator, would have to be placed within each square mile of that ten mile radius of the nuclear plant. He said that could mean over 300 siren towers.
Immediate figures weren’t available on the emergency telephone circuits, but Evett said the weather radios would cost $50 each. In addition to requiring the nuclear warning system, the new NRC regulations also mandate that the county maintain a permanent emergency operations center, “capable of providing for 24-hour per day emergency response, including 24-hour manning of communications links.” Evett’s current procedure is to set up an EOC in the courthouse basement for nuclear drills, and he told The Sentinel, “We’ll try to get by with what we’ve got at present, and develop a permanent center later.”
Further, the latest NRC dictmus[sic] mean that Evett’s office must have provisions for two-way communications with the nuclear plant and with disaster preparedness officials in Columbia. And the communications links must be tested monthly. Evett said a base radio would have to be installed to provide the communications with Columbia, and he said Duke has provided a two-way unit for communications with Oconee. There are a total of over 190 new stipulations in the latest mandates handed down by the NRC, with some 86 affecting local governments. Almost all affect the Oconee Nuclear Station, Evett said.
The county’s new requirements include more stringent plans for nuclear disaster drills, including requirements for drills to be held at night and in the early morning hours. “We have a broad, basic plan at present, but in order to comply with the new NRC regulations, we’ll have to go into finer detail. This revised plan, with the new regulations, must be operational by June 30,” Evett advised. NRC staffers will be in Pickens County on Wednesday to discuss these new regulations with Evett, and a public hearing will be held 7 p.m., Thursday at the Oconee Visitor’s Center to allow input from area residents into the new requirements.
“$300,000 Disaster Warning System.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 109 #42. 20, Feb 1980: Microfilm.
GI Victims Will Be Honored
The only memorial in South Carolina to American servicemen who died in Vietnam will be dedicated in ceremonies Sunday, May 25, at 4 p.m. at Tri-County Technical College. The memorial, a flag plaza bearing large marble markers with the names of the servicemen from Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties who died in Vietnam, is located at the main entrance to the campus of Tri-County Technical College.The Honorable William Jennings Bryan Dorn, commander of the American Legion in South Carolina and long-time chairman of the U.S House of Representatives Veterans Affairs committee, will be the keynote speaker. Other parts of the program will include a military fly-by, a cannon volley salute and the laying of memorial wreaths.
“This is the only memorial to Vietnam veterans in our three counties and the only one that we know about in South Carolina,” said Dr. Don C. Garrison, president of Tri-County Technical College. “These servicemen paid the supreme sacrifice at the call of their country, and this memorial is our way of paying tribute to them for their valiant deed.” Dr. Garrison encourages everyone in the area to attend the ceremony “to show the families that their country has not forgotten.”
TEC officials need assistance in locating the survivors of the Vietnam victims. Anyone who can provide information about the parents or spouse of any of the men listed below is asked to contact the Information Services office at Tri-County TEC. The toll-free telephone numbers at Tri-County TEC are: Anderson County 225-2250, Oconee County 882-4412, Pickens County 850-7033, Clemson-Pendleton-Anderson 646-3227.
The American servicemen from Pickens County who died in Vietnam are: Barry Kenneth Alexander, David Forrest Black, Richard Hamilton Bridges, Robert Eugene Browning, Woodrow Beal Chastain, James Donald Clardy, James Arthur Dill, William Donald Garner, Jack Leroy Garrett, Dwight Oneal Gilstrap, James Donnie Howe, Charles Johnson, JR., Clifton Randel Jones, Jimmy Kemp, Lee Lewis, Ephriam Rutledge Liles, II, Samuel T. McDowell, Jr., Gary Lynn Pace, Jerry Alfred Phillips, Hershall Tallent, Jerry Hiott Williams, Joe David Wright.
“GI Victims Will Be Honored.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 110, #3. 21 May 1980: Microfilm.
Reserves Called Out To Aid Mass Immunization
The Greenville an Pickens County Health Departments have called on the Army Reserve for assistance with special immunization clinics to be held Saturday, Aug. 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thanks to the local Army Reserve Unit, the 327 3rd U.S. Army Hospital Augmentation Unit, commanded by Major Larry M. Kowalski, “we will be well staffed to handle the large number of parents and students who will very likely be visiting health departments for shots and certificates,” said Dr. R.W. Penick, District Medical Director. “We are most grateful to the unit’s medical personnel for their kind offer of assistance. It should cut the waiting time for the public,” he said.All personnel working on Saturday will be dedicated to the school immunization effort. No other services will be provided and the telephone switchboard will not be manned. Shots as well as certificates will be available at the Greenville Health Department on University Ridge and the Pickens County Health Department on McDaniel Avenue. People visiting the health departments are reminded to bring all immunization records with them. Additionally, if the child is under 16 years of age and needs a shot, he must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Revised state immunization regulations this year apply to every child in grades kindergarten through twelve. All students must have presented a S.C. certificate of imminuzation[sic] to school officials before being admitted to public, private or parochial school in August. The new regulations primarily affect students in grades nine through twelve who have never before had to show proof of protection before entering school.
Children in grades kindergarten through eight who entered school in 1973 or later should have already submitted the required immunization certificate to school officials. “Those students who have previously submitted a FULL certificate are not required to submit another one as long as the information was made a part of their school record,” explained Dr. Penick. “However, if school records don’t show a full certificate was recorded or if a ‘conditional certificate’ was recorded, the student must obtain a new certificate this year before he can be admitted,” he added. Under the 1972 regulations, a conditional certificate was issued to students who started their shots but could not complete them before school started. In many cases, the shots were never completed.
Students should not wait until the first day of school to present the certificate of immunization to school officials. The certificate should be taken to the school the child will attend as soon as possible after obtaining it. Schools are now open and manned Monday through Friday.
“Reserves Called Out To Aid Mass Immunization.” Pickens Sentinel, vol. 110 #15. 13 Aug 1980: Microfilm.